Ini's Blog

Since I broke my foot and have been relying on a wheelchair and crutches, I keep experiencing something that fascinates and delights me again and again: the incredible kindness and helpfulness of Hungarians. In situations that would be difficult for me due to my limited mobility, it has almost become a rule that someone is immediately there to help – without hesitation.

For example, just the other day I was shopping, in my wheelchair, when I dropped something. Before I could even react, a young woman came over, picked it up, and handed it to me – so naturally and without a second thought. This small gesture made my day because it shows how quickly people here are willing to help, without even being asked.

Yesterday, we had a similar experience while dining out. My husband went to the counter to pay, and I rolled toward the door to enjoy the view. I hadn’t even been there for ten seconds when a man in his mid-30s rushed over. With a friendly “Segítsek?” (Shall I help?), he immediately opened the door, pushed me outside, and wished me a lovely day before disappearing again. My husband was quite puzzled when he found me already outside!

Today, we were by the Danube. I was making my way down the steps with crutches while my husband carried the wheelchair. Once again, the helpfulness of strangers didn’t fail us: a couple passing by immediately asked if we needed assistance. It’s truly remarkable how often and how willingly people here lend a hand.

But perhaps the most remarkable display of Hungarian helpfulness happened a few months ago when my husband bought a car in Germany. On the very same day, he planned to drive it home to us in southern Hungary. He made it across the border and stopped at the first gas station to fill up. And right there, after refueling, the clutch failed – completely. Now, for those who don’t know, driving without a clutch is possible, though challenging. You have to let the car roll, then shift into second gear once you’ve gained enough speed, and keep going without stopping – not an easy task.

On that day, my husband had to make it all the way through Hungary without a clutch. Thankfully, some kind-hearted Hungarians at the gas station saw his predicament and immediately helped push the car to get it going again. He continued driving but had to leave the highway due to a construction zone just before Budapest. In the first village, someone cut him off, forcing him to brake hard, and the car stalled again. The cars behind him had to stop as well, but instead of honking or getting angry – something that would be all too common in other countries – the drivers got out and helped him push the car again.

As evening approached, my husband faced yet another obstacle: a closed railway crossing. The car stalled once more. A Hungarian driver, who lived nearby and was waiting behind him, saw what had happened and immediately called his friends. They all arrived within minutes, and together, laughing and cheering, they helped push the car once again. As my husband drove off, they waved and shouted after him, sharing in his relief and joy. It was a moment of pure, joyful humanity that you can only find in Hungary.

In the end, my husband made it home safely, and we were both so grateful and happy. These encounters continually remind us of the incredible warmth and generosity of the people here. Their kindness makes every day a little brighter, and it’s something we truly appreciate.

What I take from these experiences

These experiences remind me how important it is to pay attention to others in our daily lives. Sometimes, it’s the small gestures that can make a huge difference for someone else. What seems to be a common courtesy in Hungary could serve as an example to all of us: a simple question, a smile, and the willingness to help can make the world a better place for everyone.