Today I picked up some wood from a fellow Freecycler to take on our campouts this summer. A friendly older fellow with a great heart and wisdom in his eyes. As I arrived at his door he lets me in and asks me if I've seen the latest email going around about tech support in India and the wires. He treats me like a good friend as we check out the hideous pictures of spider wires on his email. As I wait for him to gather his hat and gloves, I admire the large pictures on his wall...one of his family and another which is religious. I'm a little shocked and surprised to feel so welcome and at peace in this stranger's home.
Well, as we proceeded to the back of the property and load up the wood, we get caught up in talking about camping, beef cows and his kids. What perfect timing to have this conversation since the livestock auction we've gone to for our meat has been sold and closed down. We also discussed the jobs he has retired from and his ventures at the moment which include providing tables and chairs for weddings and other functions of the sort.
The more I spoke with him, the more I thought of my dad. What interesting stories he must have and the wisdom his mind holds. Sadly, for my dad, that wisdom is being locked behind doors that he just can't open anymore and each time I'm able to visit, I am saddened by the toll life is taking on him. There's a lot of things I could have learned from him if I had just taken the time...
Well, as I prepared to leave with my truck full of wet wood and a new friend, this man gives me a sample of hamburger from his cows and a flyer with his name and number. Oh, that more people could be so open and friendly! I love living in this fairly rural area where people are still kind to strangers and open with their hearts. This man truly showed me what it means to be Christlike.
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