Gray hair stuck out from the black
ball cap. A wheeled walker waited nearby. Twice a slightly gray, pony tailed
younger man got up to get something for his elderly companion.
The words on his black hat caught my
attention. Veteran WWII. I stared at him and realized how rare he was.
From my table, I could watch them
without being obvious. The pair intrigued me. Few words passed between them.
What fascinating stories they left unspoken.
The older man reminded me of my dad
who passed away over three years ago. I missed him even more than normal while
seeing them together. If we had been together, we would have been talking.
I noticed a hearing aid in the older
man’s ear. Perhaps he couldn’t hear well. Maybe he had dementia and couldn’t
carry on a conversation.
Was he on an outing with his son or
grandson? Did he live alone? Was he a widower? So many questions with no
answers. I wanted to tell them to treasure each moment together.
As I picked up my tray, I stopped by
their table and stood quietly until they noticed me. “Thank you for your
service.”
Two sets of surprised eyes looked at
me. Both smiled.
“You’re welcome,” the veteran said.
Unexpected tears welled up in my
eyes. “Have a good day,” I said.
“You too.”
Before the tears escaped, I left.
Sudden sadness came from missing my dad. Seeing lost opportunities between
people. Realizing the sacrifice of the elderly veteran. Knowing difficulties of
the members of the armed forces and their families now.
In the last few years, I have made a
point of thanking military members for their service. How thrilled I was to
have another opportunity.
My tears bothered me but might have
let him know how his presence touched me. I hope my thank you made him feel
appreciated but wish I had taken time to listen. If I see him again, I won’t hurry
away.
We never know how we can make a
difference with a simple gesture.
That is so true. I still remember that the simple gesture of sharing sharing a hymnal with me, helped me stay in a church. It's something I think of often and has led me take the time to pay a compliment, say thank you, or just hold a door for someone . You never know the ripple effect of your words or actions.
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