My Friend John.

I went to visit an old friend this morning.

He ‘lives’ at the crossroads of two major throughways; each day begging for just a few pennies to share. For some, they’ll pass without ever taking notice – reluctant to acknowledge this ‘lesser’ part of life.

But, for me, I just can’t imagine a better way to begin my day. There is something in his smile, you see – which, though weathered, still holds an irrepressible joy.

“Coffee, John..?” I called out, with thermos in hand. The temperature had dropped to a bone chilling 5 degrees Farenheit overnight. And I, was worried for my friend, ‘the old soul’ – the one whose smile always made things right.

“Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens,” he bellowed with delight. “That’s Tolkien, you know – heck of a smart guy.”

We sat at the roadside sharing stories of life over our hot breakfast sandwiches. We talked of his time in service, during the war – and, that night when life nearly slipped away.

“It’s a gift, all of it – even this.” he smiled.

Indeed, for within each passing moment there exists a most cherished gift. That we might learn to have faith enough, to stay the course – even when that road ahead may seem weary.

My goodness, how foolish of me to think through these years – that I was the only one bearing gifts.

When, in reality – the greatest gift was right here all along, tucked away with the refuge of John’s beautiful spirit.

About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

You may also like

3 Comments

Comments are closed.