"Treat everyone just like you want to be treated yourself.” - - Luke 6:31
Judy and Hal Dalton celebrate their anniversary every year by making pastrami sandwiches at home - a tradition that began with their first date nearly two decades ago. Today they followed an elderly couple driving “slower than chilly molasses” into the grocery store parking lot.
"If I ever get that slow I want you to shoot me," Hal said, his voice agitated with impatience.
"You're already that slow," Judy quipped. She had a not-so-subtle way of keeping him humble. He loved that about her.
Finally, the old geezer pulled into a handicapped parking space. With some difficulty, the two eventually entered the store. She used a walker – he managed with a 3-legged cane.
"You know we can't afford that honey," came her modest reply.
Sadly, he placed the package back on the counter and they continued down the aisle. He opted for a small package of hamburger instead.
Judy looked squarely at Hal. When it was their turn, the Dalton’s ordered four of the butcher’s best center-cut pork chops. “Two inches thick please," Judy told him. “And please write ‘HAPPY ANNIVERSARY’ on top of the white meat package in bold letters.”
A third chance meeting took place in the pastry aisle. “Did I overhear that it’s your anniversary today?” Hal asked the older gentleman.
"Fifty years today," he grinned proudly.
"Eighteen for us," Judy chimed in. “Happy Anniversary, God bless you both.”
Small talk followed briefly. The older women continued to add a few more things to her grocery list.
Exiting the checkout aisle, the Dalton’s removed the pork chops from their bag and instructed the cashier to secretly slip the meat in the older couple’s grocery bag when they checked out. Then they watched discreetly from a distance. While the sweet older woman fumbled through her purse, the cashier placed the pork chops in the bottom of their grocery bag.
The Daltons watched as the older couple’s vehicle eventually made it onto the busy street. Cars quickly lined up behind them, horns blaring with intolerance.
"Thank you for the anniversary present dear,” Judy said to Hal. “It's the best one ever!" They looked adoringly into each other’s eyes . . . and kissed. At home, while unpacking their groceries, they found a short, hand-written, barely-legible note. It said simply ‘Happy Anniversary – Never give up!’
We thank You, O God, for the love You have implanted in our hearts. May it always inspire us to be kind in our words, prayerful in our desires, and concerned for each other's needs and wishes. Help us to be understanding and forgiving of human weaknesses and failings. Amen
