Dear Editor,

I wish to extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Mr Marlon Johnson of the Norman Manley International Airport.

I was en route to Grand Cayman Islands on 1st September 2013, but was unable to board the flight due to some missing documents for my two sons. The uncanny coincidence of our meeting is that I had noticed Mr Johnson working really hard cleaning the tables and floors while at the airport, and I felt it necessary to tell him that I was impressed with his work attitude. We chatted for a few minutes about his plans for the future and I lauded him and told him that if his aspiration for a bright future was embellished with the positive attitude he maintained then he would indeed achieve great things.

That was the end of our chance encounter, or so I thought, until it was time to check-in with the airline when I discovered my documents for my children (ages 3 and 7 years) were not in order and I could not board the flight.

Added to that dillemma, my mobile phone was not working and I did not have any means of contacting my husband who had the necessary documents for me to board the flight.

I was so distraught and afraid of being stranded with my children and then I spotted Mr Johnson and took a chance and approached him and told him about my plight. He did not hesitate for a moment to extend to me the use of his mobile phone and to express his concern. He then stayed vigilant for us that entire time until I was able to secure some accomodation for my family.

I am indeed indebted to him and I remain overwhelmed by his hospitality and gentle demeanour. Far too often good deeds are not given the attention they deserve. I could not afford to stay quiet with this feel-good experience. I honestly thought good Samaritans did not exist anymore until I met that wonderful young man. Thank you with all my love and blessings, Mr Marlon Johnson. I will never forget your kindness.

Deborah C Beckles

Grand Cayman