I had this profound moment this evening watching the Uber Eats driver trying to find my flat (it’s a bit difficult to find).

I was feeling a bit grumpy watching him go the wrong way on the in-app map. But he did find his way and I watched him suddenly hesitate at the gate.

And I saw why.

So clearly on his face was a look of fear and trepidation. It was in his body language. And I just felt it.

All my grumpiness instantly fell away and I just really felt for him. I felt all the fear and anxiety I would feel trying to do a job like that, delivering to some weird address in a strange neighbourhood.

I waved him over from my window and was friendly, grateful and upbeat as he gave me my dinner. But he was clearly not feeling good.

It was really a moment of heartfelt reflection for me.

I felt ashamed at my grumpiness of all the times delivery drivers have got lost trying to find me. I realised how grateful I am to have the conveniences and luxury of home deliveries. They truly assist me to live my life with some normality.

And more, I realised these are real people. I know of course they are. But somehow it became a lot more real. A lot more important.

Like: “Aeryn, it really is time to count your blessings. And these people deserve your respect.”

Don’t get me wrong. I am always respectful, polite, thank them, and give good feedback (or no feedback) to their employer.

But that’s easy. It’s nice. It’s the right thing to do.

It’s more than that. It has to be truthful. And tonight it really was.

Maybe I’m wrong about this guy tonight. But I really felt something. That he really needed someone to be kind to him. Not just to his face. But to appreciate him and the challenge he was facing just trying to do his job.

Maybe he’s low paid, working long hours alone, in strange neighbourhoods, dealing with grumpy people. Maybe he hates it. Or maybe he loves it.

I don’t know.

All I know was this deep clarity inside me. And actual empathy. To appreciate what is being done in service for me. To help me. To make my life easier. And what it takes for others to provide that service.

Not Uber the corporation. But all the workers that are collectively Uber, or Amazon, or DPD, or whomever. The people who keep the wheels turning.

And this guy. This human person. Doing his thing whether he likes it or not, so I can have a nice meal.

Thank you delivery guy. And all the delivery people and service workers around the world.

I sent him a good tip. I hope in some small way it helps him know he is appreciated.