Last Tuesday was a horrible day for me. I woke up feeling unwell, with a bad headache. I had an important exam at college in the afternoon, and I felt very worried and afraid I would fail.

I tried to study, but my head hurt too much. I felt quite miserable and unhappy. I decided to take the bus to college early to give myself plenty of time.

On the bus, I must have looked as bad as I felt. An old lady sitting opposite me smiled kindly. "Are you alright, dear?" she asked in a soft voice. "You look a bit pale."

I tried to smile back. "I'm okay, thank you. Just feeling a bit sick. I have an important exam today."

"Oh, exams! They can be terrible," she said with an understanding look. "Don't you worry too much. Just do your best. That's all anyone can ask." Her words were simple, but somehow they made me feel a little better. She seemed like such a pleasant and gentle person.

We chatted for a few minutes more. She told me about her grandchildren. She was very proud of them. Talking to her made me forget my headache for a short time.

When I got off the bus at the college stop, she wished me good luck. "I'm sure you'll do well," she said with another warm smile.

I went into college feeling a bit more positive. The exam was hard, but I tried my best, just like the kind lady said. I didn't feel great, but I managed to answer most of the questions.

When the results came out a week later, I was amazed – I passed! I even got a good mark. I felt so happy and relieved.

I often think about that kind stranger on the bus. She didn't know me, but she took a moment to be nice and encouraging. Her simple words made a big difference to my horrible day. It reminded me how important it is to be kind to others, even people you don't know. You never know how much a friendly smile or a few polite words can help someone feel better.