It's The Little Things

That make our day. 

So, we suddenly had some hours off out of the blue for some reason we don’t know. Instead of going home and getting started on homework (as a good student), I went to homebase, and it was as I was paying that it happened. 

There was only one counter open, and operating it was an old man. I was not really paying attention, and so I missed what he said when he spoke to me. 

“Pardon?” I say.

“How are you doing today?” he repeats, and it's just something about the way he gives me his full attention and actually looks at me instead of focusing on the machine that gives me the distinct impression that he sincerely cares.

“Oh, well, I’m quite good,” I reply slightly befuddled, before hurriedly smiling and adding, “how are you doing?”

“Good –well, so far so good.” He makes a face somewhere between a smile and a tired grimace.

“That’s good,” I say and he suddenly opens his arms, gesturing toward the doors only a few feet away, his face brightening - yet a tint of aged wisdom knowing to appreciate the simple thing we are given remain deep in his eyes. 

“And the sun is shining.”

“Yes, it is a very good day, actually,” I say, glancing out and briefly reflecting upon how warm this day actually is in comparison to the last weeks, my smile widening.

Then he proceeds to huff good-naturedly at the computer – and technology in general – as we wait for it to register my payment.  He tells me to be careful not to carry the lava lamp in a lying fashion (as that is what I bought), and wishes me a good day.