Distraction as kindness

This morning, I was waiting my turn for an outpatient appointment.  Across the room was a group of 4 people, talking to each other in loud voices about their hospital experiences.  One guy tried to outdo the other.  I tried reading, listening to my ipod and checking my emails to no avail.  A volunteer came into the waiting room, saw me on my own and greeted me.  We had a coffee together and talked about book clubs.  She even found out for me where I was in the line-up.  I relaxed for the rest of the wait.  The check-up was fine.