Be Happy

I work at a gas station. I see lots of things and lots of people. Some things and/or people stick in your mind for a while, some you hope to forget as quickly as possible. But once in a while, you get inspired...someone or something leaves an impression. That happened to me today, and I really want to keep the memory and the message living for a little longer.

Today, a gentleman came into the store. We exchanged greetings and then he asked me if I was happy. Right out of the blue. I thought it was odd, but I really couldn't think of anything that I had to be unhappy about. So, I said "Yes". He perused the candy bar aisle a while, and then came to the counter with a candy bar and a York's Peppermint Patty. We talked about the price of candy bars and how crazy it's gotten. Then as he turned to leave he said, "this one's for you" and handed me the Peppermint Patty...and reminded me how important it is to be happy. He walked out the door, got in his pickup, and drove away.

It was small, this chance meeting. But a total stranger left me impressed, inspired and humbled. I stood there watching him drive away, wondering what his story was....how many others has he left with a candy bar and those words of wisdom to remember how important it is to be happy. I wondered if he had tons of money and just wanted to do a little something to share it, along with the "happy" message...or maybe he didn't have much money at all. Was he a preacher, a lawyer, a teacher or a plumber?

I don't know what his story was, probably never will...but what I do know is that he was right. It really is important to be happy. It's important to seek that happiness, and it's important to share it with others.

Thank you, whoever you are for sharing that moment with me. Thank you for giving me something visual to remind me of that message. I will most likely never see a York Peppermint Patty and not think of you or how important it is to be happy. Thank you for ending this year on such a "happy" note. :o)