I stopped to get a cup of coffee on the way to work the other day. A well mannered kid (18-20) who was also getting coffee said "Good morning, Sir." As I absentmindedly looked for a pastry to go with my java we bumped into each other. "Sorry, sir", he said.
We got in line at the same time, he just a step ahead of me. "Would you like to go ahead, sir?" he asked.
"That's okay, son", I said. "You're fresh out of boot camp, aren't you?" I asked.
"Yes, sir. Does the haircut give me away?"
"No, it's the 'sir', I don't get called that very much. Do you like it?"
"I love it, sir. I go to Fort Campbell on Monday and this summer I'm going to Afghanistan." I suddenly got a huge lump in my throat.
I offered my hand, he shook it firmly, "Thank you", I said.
"No problem, sir", he replied. "Some folks don't think we should be over there, but..."
"The politics of it don't matter to me", I interrupted. "You're doing a job for us and we appreciate it."
"Glad to do it, sir."
He made his purchase, and as he was leaving turned and said "Have a good day, sir."
"You do the same. Be safe over there."
"I will, sir."
As I cashed out I noticed the clerks eyes were wet. So were mine.
About Me
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- Mark W.
- Queensbury, New York, United States
- Married father of 1 adult and 1 toddler. Recovering alcoholic, rock star wannabe, ex-hippie.
oh wow...that was worth doing the blog thing again after your hiatus! My eyes are filled too...the thing is, I would love to say the same thing to a service person but know that I would never make it through thanking them and wishing them well. That was heartwarming.
ReplyDeleteKeep 'em coming Mark, we love what you write.
ReplyDeleteYou're right - the politics don't matter. Those who would willingly put their lives on the line for our country deserve our gratitude and support. I always try to thank these brave people for their service. They are in a class all their own.
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