Hello There!
Caught your attention didn’t it? This made me smile as it somewhat reflects the joy we feel around friendly people! The other day I decided to take my toddlers out for lunch. My youngest was on the verge of a nap as his behavior was escalating to the point I’d reached my limit. We were headed back home when I changed my mind to take them to a local indoor play area. Sometimes we need grace in our rough attitudes. So the kids and I played for a little bit then headed home much happier. As I was pulling into our driveway I noticed this woman approaching with a stroller and two dogs. She was just starting to walk near our neighbors yard. Her gait was awkward and appeared painful from my vantage point. There was a limp and somewhat of a hunched over maneuver she used as she pushed the stroller and managed the dogs.
Suddenly it began to pour rain. I quickly got the garage door up and parked the car in the driveway. I had a large table to get from the back so pulling into the garage wouldn’t work to get the table out. I rushed my children into the garage and noticed the woman again. She was now approaching our house. I noticed her walk once more. It was somewhat hunched and she moved as if she was in pain. Her patience was amazing despite the rain she waited patiently for her dogs to sniff and move about. Who knows how far she was from home. This is ridiculous I thought. I’m inviting her in! I gestured toward her and offered the garage until the storm stopped. She stopped surprised. Rain still pouring she questioned my offer. Of course I said motioning her and the pups in. The kids were delighted! They quickly began chattering this pour gals ear off and playing with the dogs. As we chatted I realized how God’s timing is always perfect. Had I came home earlier I would have missed this lady. She was blown away by my gesture, which in itself made me sad kindness isn’t more of the norm..
Today I want to encourage you on the value of a simple hello. In my brief ten minutes with this woman I learned a great deal about her. This gal had a bad back, but she did not let that stop her from blessing her dogs. The stroller I soon found out was not full with a busy baby or toddler, but rather an older dog with limited mobility. This sweet woman did not want to leave out her dog so she graciously pushed her along while walking her other two dogs to give her an experience as well. Now for some of you this may seem ridiculous, dogs are just dogs you may reason, but I’d challenge you to see beyond that and see her heart. She braved the elements despite struggling with a very visible disability to bless another creature. As our conversation ended she left with a smile and I did as well. I may have made a new friend today simply by saying hello! Who deserves to see your beautiful smile today?.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12