Today Stacy and I went out to lunch at a cafe.
Lunch is a good thing however it has changed over the last year. I wonder if you can imagine the experience of going to a public restaurant to enjoy a meal without the ability to walk to the table, pull your chair in, lift or hold the fork or wipe away the extra ranch dressing from the corner of your mouth. I don't think I can.
This is the reality of Stacy's dining experience. It is a daily display of courage that I am regularly impressed by.
Today at lunch we sat next to a couple who looked like they came out of a Sopranos style TV show set in Florida. Miami Sopranos - white pants on the man and woman, enough gold to get the job done and a relaxed authoritative air. Late 50s/early 60s, sunglasses, you with me?
After we had ordered and before our food had arrived Mr. Soprano Miami came over and jammed a crisp 50 into my hand. "Nothing to say, nothing to say" was what he said as he left my hand and the $50 note intertwined. "How are you sweetheart?" he said as he touched Stacy's shoulder. "Good thank you, thank you for that." Stacy replied."Enjoy your lunch" said the Aspley mafia man. They soon drove off giving us a jovial and friendly honk from their white Mercedes-Benz, it matched the pants nicely.
Its was really good. Kindness and consideration, we can't get enough of it.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the experience was the contrast to our meal time interaction with Jeff in Reno (see 'Anybody can run on a fine day' from July). US Jeff talked to us for 20 plus minutes about his medical experiences, he spoke of healthy state of mind, affirmative language and a continued competitive attitude. It made us feel positive and supported. Aussie 'Aspley mafia' injected himself into our day for 20 seconds with a $50 note and a robust caring word. He made us feel positive and supported. Nothing to say, and yet so much communicated.
It is so wonderful being on the receiving end of peoples consideration and generosity. I have the feeling though that it is also excellent for people to experience the everyday courage that is Stacy eating lunch at a cafe.
We hope all is well with our friends and family.
Mike and Stacy
This gave me goosebumps. I cant get over how random people can know so much about strangers.
ReplyDeleteLove this! Hope you guys are well. Missing you every day.
ReplyDeleteThinking about this I reckon, Mike, you are right. It is just one of the ways Stace, that you continue to contribute goodness to our world.
ReplyDeleteShannon, when you come down to good old Australia, you too might be beseiged by men giving you money???Never know what can happen!
Whether it's 20 minutes or 20 seconds, you are LOVED. Thank you for sharing such a touching glimpse into your everyday life. I just returned from Texas, where my friend (who you've never met) teared up when she explained how much you and Stacy have influenced her life and decisions. Keep on rockin! Oh...and I think you should also buy some white pants.
ReplyDelete