Well, I’m on the mend and doing quite well. Most of the kids are in school or have gone off to university. It’s kind of quiet around here during the day. Of course, I have plenty to do and for now I am moving a little slower than in days past. But, I still like to put on a pair of bibs and go for a morning walk.
This morning I had a most pleasant surprise when I was heading down the walkway from the house to the sidewalk. A young neighbor… well, he’s thirty-something… was jogging in place at the foot of the steps that lead to the sidewalk. As soon as I opened the door he waved and I could see a big smile on his face.
“I thought we could walk together this morning.”
Of course, I feigned a protest. “Oh, no. I don’t want to hold you up. But, thank you for thinking of me.” Truthfully, I was delighted to see him.
Here’s the thing. He’s a bright young man who is back in school. I don’t know all the details. But, I do know that this young man is changing his life. That is not to say that he had anything wrong with his life before. He had become a little overweight after getting out of the military. His job prospects weren’t so bright. So, he decided to do something. He enrolled in college. He started walking every morning. He lost a few pounds. Now, he runs everyday. He is now down some 50 pounds… and looking very fit.
Anyway, I meet this young man at least once or twice a week on the sidewalk. He always stops to say “hello” and chat for a moment or two. Isn’t that really nice? After all, we don’t really know one another and I am old enough to be his mother. He doesn’t have to do anything more than move to one side of the sidewalk when we pass. But, he is always pleasant and always stops to exchange amenities.
I saw him yesterday when I was on my way home from the morning sunrise. We chatted for a moment or two. During the conversation he asked what time I usually go for the walk. This morning he was outside waiting for me when I was leaving the house.
We walked… actually, strolled… for about two miles this morning. I know he would have been running had I not been like a weight around his ankles. But, he showed no impatience. We talked about school. We talked about fitness. We talked.
Maybe I’m wrong. But, I don’t think so. This is a wonderful young man who is starting his life over after serving in the military. He has realized the necessity of a good education. He has realized that getting fit and staying fit is a life benefit. And, he cares about people.
So, to my friend, “thank you.” I did enjoy the morning walk, the bright and enthusiastic conversation, and good company. Sometimes being kind to someone who does not expect it is a gift given. Today I am thankful for the young man who is a caring person.
