I was buying flowers at the local market, it’s a lovely place, the colors, the smells, the possibilities of beauty overflowing. I was in a hurry, my time limited and I had so much to accomplish.  I whooshed by an elderly man with a cap on that read “Korean War”- it has other information on it, it was a sign of his devotion to his country. I realized that his hat was his attempt to connect with others, perhaps someone who knew someone who had served, or better yet, that the general public knew he had served, that he, like all God’s children was worthy of consideration and kindness.  He was not just an old man lost amid the flowers. He could not have been more than 20ish when he served- doing the math- 1950-2021- this gentleman had to be well into his 90’s.

 The saleslady was awesome, she was patient and kind and worked with him to make sure he got just what he wanted, 4 hanging baskets.  She acted as though there was no one else in the world except him.  He was apologetic in nature, his first time to this market.  They give you a yellow slip to take to the register to pay so you don’t have to bring all your flowers with you.  I overheard the sales lady explaining this all to him.  Suddenly I am opening my mouth, calling to her- “Here. Give me his slip- I want to pay for him!” She smiles as though she knew this already, she points to me already in line, the gentleman looks at me a little bewildered.  I smile, oops I have a mask on- he cannot see my smile!  So, I blow him a kiss- and he blows one back to me, and our connection is complete.  My heart smiles.  Being kind feeds my soul, I am grateful I am able to do so.