Yesterday evening, I struck up a conversation with a stranger. I’d seen her once or twice before, but we’d never spoken. I explained to her that I was an author and have free promo of one of my novels coming up. I handed her a card with the information on it and asked if she would be willing to download it during the free period and perhaps tell her friends about it. Increasing the number of downloads is helpful to me, I said.
She agreed. Not only that, but she bought a copy of the book last night, even though it will be free in a week, so that she could tell her friends more about the novel. We continued talking to discover a common background. Our total conversation lasted less than five minutes, but she departed, enthusiastic about helping me spread the word about the free promotion as far as possible.
As I sit here today, thinking about who I need to personally tell about the promotion and anticipating the reaction of a few “friends” (annoyance that I asked for their help), I am struck by the kindness of a stranger. And, of course, I am very grateful.