Rave Two years ago our son had a terrible accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He's been making his way independently to his physical-therapy session on the bus. A neighbor noticed that the concrete was damaged and bushes encroached his bus stop and notified King County, which repaired and cleaned up the area to make it easier and safer for our son and everyone else who uses it. Thank you!

Rave To the off-duty fireman who helped when our 10-year-old daughter fainted at the Sounders game. He stayed with us until medics arrived and came back to check on her when they left. We were so grateful for his kindness!

Rant To the caregiver at the park who repeatedly told a 6-month-old baby to "shut up" while he cried. When I commented, you were flippant and said that he doesn't understand. He may not understand words, but he understands meaning and intent. It broke my heart to see you treat an innocent little person with such disrespect and indifference. His mother deserves to know how you treat her son and you should be a responsible adult and step away from the role of caregiver — it doesn't suit you.

Rave To the man who was so kind and engaging to my talkative special-needs daughter when she was bouncing off the walls while we were shopping. Every employee at Central Market is so kind to her but this was a total stranger. I came home and told my family about it and began to cry. Raising a special-needs child can be so challenging, and the gentle kindness of strangers can bring more beauty than they will ever know.

Rant To me for stealing the parking spot you were waiting for. I wasn't paying attention and was too embarrassed to respond when you confronted me. My sincere apologies.

Rave To the crew of Ballard's Engine 18 for making Neighbor Night Out so memorable. Kids of all ages got tours and photo ops as the team and truck visited block parties. Folks on 60th Street are still smiling.

The Seattle Times publishes reader rants and raves on a space-available basis. We reserve the right to edit for length or content. Send yours to rantandrave@seattletimes.com