A routine traffic stop became an unexpectedly emotional moment for an Indian entrepreneur who found herself overwhelmed by a police officer’s genuine show of concern.
In a viral LinkedIn post, Janani Porkodi recounted the encounter that took place last week, describing how she was driving while feeling "overwhelmed and stressed beyond words". Detailing her state of mind, she wrote: “Last week, I broke down in front of a traffic cop. I was driving, overwhelmed and stressed beyond words. One thing after another had piled on — work, pressure, expectations. I was stopped by a traffic cop, and I don’t even remember what the reason was.”
What followed, however, was not a confrontation over a traffic violation but a question that triggered a flood of emotion. She recalled the officer asking her: “What happened? Are you okay?”
“It was that moment,” she said. “I broke down crying. Because he asked. Because his concern was genuine. Because I didn’t expect it. Because I needed it.”
The incident left a lasting impression on her, offering a sense of perspective amidst the mounting pressures she had been facing. “I don’t even know his name. But I’m grateful. I felt more in control. More human,” she added.
Concluding her post with a message for others who might be struggling, she reflected on the importance of compassion, especially during difficult times. “No matter how strong we try to be, we’re all vulnerable. And it’s okay to break down. It’s okay to feel. And if you see someone struggling, a kind word can really make a difference. Let’s be gentle. With ourselves. And with each other.”
The heartfelt post struck a chord with many users online, prompting a wave of supportive and empathetic comments.
One user wrote, “Sometimes, we just need someone to notice our struggle and remind us that it's okay to feel. This, too, shall pass; stay strong. You got this.”
Another added, “Crying is human behaviour, so it's okay to break down and cry, but what's important is how you bounce back!”
A third user commented, “Breaking down is human. Those who pretend to be strong all the time are just faking it out or living a life of denial or avoidance.”
A fourth observed, “Your experience beautifully underscores the power of genuine kindness in our busy lives. It's a reminder that it's perfectly okay to show vulnerability and that a simple act of compassion can truly lighten someone's emotional load.”
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