As some of y’all know, my dad’s dad was Cecil Jr. — Big Buddy. Pepperidge Farm bread man for the better part of 30 years, and one of the best there was. I think he could sell ice to Alaskans and convince ’em they’d need to refrigerate it.
I was lucky enough to help him out for a few summers. One thing he taught me: whenever you walk into a place, the next time you see that person might be the last. How do you want ’em to remember you?
He was doin’ it for sales and bread. I don’t sell bread. Over four decades later I still live by it. Try to make each interaction the same.
Yesterday I was “cookin’” dinner at my remote kitchen — KFC — standin’ in line (er, I mean preppin’) with other folks workin’ the same 11 herbs and spices. I may have offered two or three of my favorite greetings. “If I were any better, I’d be twins.” And “Better now that I’ve met you.” At the counter I warmly wished the, now smilin’, employee a Merry Christmas. It’s September.
She looked at me, chuckled, and wished it back. A few folks in line were laughin’. A friendly customer got the door and wished me a Merry Christmas on the way out. Hospitality doesn’t expire.
Thousands of years back, one of the great love stories started at a well. Rebekah drawin’ water for a stranger and his camels — not knowin’ that drink would become the backbone of Israel.
Joyfully greetin’ each other costs little. Means much.
Just a thought from a guy that learned it from his Papa on a bread route and still tries to do him proud every time he walks into a room. Even if the room smells like Extra Crispy.
Bible Verses
Questions
Any advice from your folks or grandparents you still follow ???
What does sharin’ joy joy joy look like deep in your heart ??? (c’mon admit it, you’re singing it !!!)
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