He found joy standing in line...

Saturday, hubby and I visited the new neighborhood grocery store.  Anticipation of the new store has been discussed by family, friends and strangers for months. Coupons for lower prices and advertisements inviting everyone to an ice cream social have filled our mailboxes. Watching the building construction, the traffic lights being installed at the parking lot entrance and landscaping bringing beauty to the paved area, questions have been plentiful.

"When is the store opening? What is different about this store? Has anyone ever heard of this chain? Wonder what will happen to the other two grocery stores?"

Yet, even though we know the prices at our favorite stores, we wanted to see what this new place has to offer. We wanted to "check it out", along with a lot of other folks.

The parking lot was full when we arrived. Store "hosts" were gathering carts to take back inside. A booth was set up outside to offer a place to sign up for the store rewards card. Alan and I found a spot in line to wait for our turn to fill out the form to make sure we get savings on our purchases.

Amidst all the excitement and crowd, that is when I saw him.

A car parked and a woman exited the driver side. The passenger door opened and an elderly gentleman waited for his helper. She placed a walker in front of the gentleman and he grabbed both sides for balance and stood. They proceeded to cross the parking lot and head for the rewards card line.

The two people stood beside us. The man spoke first.

"What a beautiful day! Have you been here before? This is our first time." The biggest grin was on his face.

Turning to face him, I spoke. "No, we haven't been here. This is our first time, too."

The elderly gentleman continued speaking and showing his beautiful smile.

"Isn't today beautiful? The sun is shining and the birds are singing. I sat on my back porch this morning and listened to the sounds of nature. What a glorious day!"

We continued chatting until we both had our turn in line to fill out the forms.

As we walked into the store, he said, "Have a wonderful day!" Still smiling.

This man touched my heart. I may never see him again. Or, who knows? Maybe I will meet him again at the grocery store.

On a day when everyone could have been grouchy about the crowd and standing in line, this man showed God's love with a big smile and friendly conversation.

Thank you to the man who found "joy" while standing in line. He gave me "joy".

Have you found unexpected joy today? Share a smile with someone.

Blessings and smiles,
Mimi