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.
OMG, Tara! Thank you for such a lovely story and such a great reminders that there are people like John everywhere!
You’re welcome, my dearest Todd ~ and, may we never once lose the joy in our connection.
Marvelous. In the recognition of the divine in others, we recover it within ourselves.