I’ve always known that when I’m lost or confused a woman near-by might well be helpful. I realize that’s a bit of a generalization but many more times than not it has been my truth.

During my last trip to Saudi Arabia there were three instances when a kind woman made a difference. After traveling almost 40 hours I knew I had to get outside and wake up enough to see the city. Riyadh is not a walkable city but I wasn’t ready to get into a car just yet. A young woman behind the Concierge Desk came to my rescue. She suggested the shopping mall just a block or so away might brighten up my energy. When she saw how disoriented I was she suggested that she walk me there. She was willing to leave the desk unattended just to help me out!

A day later I was able to pay it forward. On the plane ride back to Dubai a young woman in a Burqa tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I would please change seats with the man behind me. She had a baby and toddler in tow and as he was dressed as a tourist in bermuda shorts she felt uncomfortable. For a brief moment I eyed the empty middle seat in my row but realized she needed me. I spent a few short hours helping to entertain her children with peek-a-boo and other non-verbal games.

Many hours later I landed in Boston, an airport that was not familiar. I found myself outside of security after going through customs and could not find any information regarding my next flight. I went back through security into the main lobby and was still confused. Apparently I was in a new wing and no one seemed to know where my next flight was departing. I asked at least 3 people before being told that I was in the wrong terminal entirely and needed to go to another one. I went back to my first location and requested directions to Terminal A. A female TSA agent heard me inquire and responded that she was on her way there to deliver something right now and would be happy to escort me! It was a bit of a journey so I more than welcomed her company.

And lucky me, I have my two best wonderful women awaiting me at home…well three if I count my dog!