Though I do not get to do it as often as I would like, one of my favorite things is to go to one of the coffee shops near my home and spend time reading my Bible, journaling and absorbing myself in a good book over a delicious cup of hot Joe. That experience was made even more pleasant this morning, when I arrived, staked my claim on a table and began removing my coat.
I frequent several coffee shops, and the ones I like best are best liked because of the friendly staff that works there. It's not a neighborhood bar like Cheers was, but "almost" everybody (at least everybody working there) knows my name. It's a great feeling to walk in the door and have someone shout, "Good morning, Drew!" This good-natured treatment, however, goes beyond a gregarious greeting.
One morning, when especially tired, I had forgotten my wallet at home. I did not realize it until the manager (Nick), who by the way, had not even taken my order, but got the cup of coffee he knew I liked and would order anyway, brought it to the register and handed it to me. At that point I said, "Wow, I'm really sorry, but you're going to have to put it back. I just realized I forgot my wallet." Without a blink he retorted, "No problem, Drew. I can take care of it for you." I assured him I would pay for it the next time I was in (which I did), but appreciated his gesture and kindness greatly.
Back to this morning. Standing at the table and positioning my briefcase, one of the clerks (Helen) met me at my table with a cup of dark roast coffee in a ceramic mug (just the way I like it), set it on the table and said, "It's on me today!" In a mild state of shock, I thanked her very much as she went back to her station.
All I can say is, if these small acts of kindness can affect so deeply, how much more, when we offer ourselves and our services to others without limitation or reservation? Perhaps we would find ourselves living more in the kind of world Christ intended when he came and gave all for us. When he said, "It's on me today!" (John 10:10)
Good to see you blogging again! I enjoy reading them! This one was especially cool. Random acts of kindness do go a long way in making someones day, or year!
Posted by: Andrew Baldridge | November 29, 2011 at 03:49 PM
Always nice to have little thoughtful acts done. Sometimes they can make a world of difference.
Posted by: Chris Baldridge | January 25, 2012 at 11:16 PM