Finding Value

Right now I’m getting questioned rather aggressively by my friends about this decision to move South into a relatively small town, where I’ve never lived. And I must admit for awhile it’s been one of those nagging little questions; at least up until tonight.

I’m sitting in a restaurant, eating my dinner by myself (of course) and I’m watching those around me when I notice a family with four teenage boys come in. The father pulls out the chair for his wife, seats her, then proceeds around the table, collecting the ball caps off his son’s heads, sits down and explains to them gently that they will always remove their hats indoors, particularly in the presence of their mother. Is there any other explanation necessary? The same Old Southern Manners that my own father drilled into my head through my back end and it finally stuck, to the point that when I’m out on business I am often complimented for doing what my dad insisted upon. I raised my kids that way and despite their obvious unhappiness with me, they and I still get compliments on how well mannered they are. Thank you Lord, if I got nothing else in my life right, at least I’ve helped spread the message and produced two well mannered people.

So, I had the manager let me pick up the check for that family without their ever knowing it, and left knowing that a good deed must be rewarded. It was worth every cent and for those moments of tearful pride and appreciation of seeing another dad do the right thing. So, if you want to really find the value in life, just sit back quietly and watch. Every once in awhile your patience will be rewarded beyond your greatest expectations.