Today, after church, DB and I stopped in at our usual Sunday lunch spot. There was a warm, Sunday buzz of conversation going on, with bantering between the waitresses and the customers. Families of all types were sitting at the tables, laughing, talking, and eating the good home-cooking put out from the kitchen.
DB and I found a table near the front. We have known the family who were sitting next to us since we moved into town. The mother has retired from the local elementary school. She and her husband just recently sold their popular restaurant at the other end of the town, and now they are enjoying their free time. With them was their daughter and her husband and three young children. Watching grandpa with his baby grandaughter was a delightful addition to my lunch.
One of the waitresses in this eating spot went to school with our oldest son. She is married to the county DA, but is still waiting tables. At other tables, there were several people we also know, some better than others, but all give a cheery greeting when we meet.
Yesterday, I stopped into the small, but well-stocked, library. I've known the librarian since I moved here, 26 years ago. She knows my card number, so I don't even bother to carry it anymore. She also knows my reading habits, and will suggest a new book.
When I ran into the post office, I saw three people I know. And the postal worker behind the counter greets me by name, and lets me have my mail when I forget my box key. She also knows my younger son is a postal worker in another state, and asks about him and his family.
And the hardware store? I never go in there without seeing one of my neighbors. The family that owns the store is trying to sell it; the big discount hardware places are making it hard to keep going. This store has supported three families for many years. It will be hard to see it close.
The little mom and pop grocery has changed hands three times since we have lived here. Always, a local family buys it, and the tradition of small town groceries continues. The most recent owner is the son of the former owner, who died a few years ago. He keeps the store open, and has even added a few amenities.
My neighbor ran his snow blower through my driveway yesterday, because the guy who is supposed to plow it left a big pile of snow in my driving spot. Another neighbor has cleaned out the end of the alley on his own time.
And so the friendliness and warmth of a small village continues to nourish me. We may not 'coffee klatch' together, but the caring of those who live in this village surrounds me.
Life is good. Thank you, Lord. Amen
4:48 PM
A little discourse on living space.
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