One afternoon I was dining outside with a group from work (it was someone's retirement party). It was a casual restaurant and a casual affair.

Across the patio I saw a woman who appeared to be in her 70s. She had full makeup with very pale foundation and red lipstick, her jet black hair piled on top of her head (it was like a hairpiece that Fran on the "Nanny" would wear). She was wearing a red satiny top that like a kimono.
My eyes kept travelling over to her. She reminded me a bit of "Auntie Mame" in her outfit with full makeup and her hairstyle

I said to myself I should go tell her how lovely she looks. But then I thought, what if she feels that's an intrusion, what if she thinks it's weird I came over to her.
I kept looking over at her and arguing over in my head why I should not approach her.

But before I knew it my feet which felt like lead at the moment, started walking me over to her table.
She was sitting with a woman who appeared to be in her 30s. They both smiled as I approached.
I said to her "I had to come over and tell you how beautiful you are."
Her friend started beaming and nodding in agreement she said to her "I told you"

The woman in the red satin outfit smiled at me and clutched both my hands in hers tightly.
She said to me "You don't know how much that means to me - I haven't been out in over a year since my husband died, it's been hard to even make myself go outside - this is my first time out in a year".

Her friend was nodding that this was true.

I was now instead of fighting back awkwardness, fighting back tears. I didn't want to ruin the moment with sadness.

I continued in an upbeat tone "I kept looking at you across the room, you just look so stunning - all made up full makeup - you look like you are going to a Broadway play - no one dresses up like that anymore"

She grinned at me and here eyes twinkled as she shook my hands in hers "You know I'm a Jewish gal from the Bronx, my girlfriends and I ALWYAS dressed up and went out, that's how we do it"

I said well I'm glad she came out because she looked lovely and her friend said "I've been trying to get her to come out with me for over a year now"

The woman continued to hold both my hands in hers warmly and then asked if I would join them.
I explained I couldn't - I was at a work function.
We chatted a few minutes more and she thanked me again telling me it meant so much that I came over.

It was a small gesture, to come pay her a compliment and I had argued with myself repeatedly as to why I should stay seated but something pushed me across the room that day - compelled me to speak to her.
I was so glad I did.

Sometimes the smallest kind gesture can make a difference.
If you have a chance to be kind - take it.
It's a risk as someone may not be receptive.
BUt on the other hand, it can make a someone's day.