Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Everyday traits that I admire most.

If I were a bazillionaire I would hand out random rewards to strangers that show signs of being intrinsically good. I would slip a stack of rubber-banded twenties to the family that cleaned up after themselves at the movie theater. I would secretly pay off the car note for the man who returned his shopping cart to the proper area at the grocery store. I would slip a season pass to the symphony in the mailbox of the woman who, instead of saving a half row of seats with coats and programs, chose to sit further back with her late arriving guests. I would have a large flat screen tv delivered to the family at the church potluck who went to the back of the line instead of taking the "cuts" in line that they were offered by others. I would find a better job with a signing bonus for the Walmart cashier who managed to be friendly and offer a smile despite having worked a long shift. I would hire an attorney to help me anonymously pay off the credit card balances for the person who didn't honk at me when I was slow to notice that the light had changed. I would set up a scholarship for the young man who asks out the unpopular girl to help her self-esteem.

Alas, I am not wealthy enough to do any of the above without it hurting the family budget. These good people will have to settle for a word of praise, a smile and a prayer that they will all see rewards for their good deeds sooner than later.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Introduction

First I will say that life is good. No, I'm not filthy rich or exceptionally wise. I don't have everything figured out and my life is not always rosy but the great scale seems to tip towards the positive and for that I am extremely grateful.

My oldest daughter called yesterday to announce she is expecting! At 50 it is about time I start in on being a grandpa. I have a lovely and kind wife. I have 4 terrific kids. My married kids have wonderful spouses. Our youngest will be with us for at least 6 more years before college and adulthood beckons. We live with furry clowns disguised as dogs. They provide unconditional love and entertainment. The cats live outside, pretending to like us yet always spying through the windows and making demands. They add some mystery and drama to our days.

The world around us is amazing. I am often dazzled by the sky and intrigued by the changes of weather. In my windowless office I day-dream of being outside feeling the breeze and the warmth of the sun. One Christmas we visited my parents in Hawaii. We slept on their screened patio listening to the ocean and breathing the salty air. It was better than any dream or drug.