Not A Brag
This might seem a brag, Any any disavowal may seem False, but it isn’t. Just a pondering of the State of common courtesy In the past few weeks, A clerk in a store, A cold call realtor, A restaurant worker, A business associate All have told me that I’m kind. Each comment was a surprise Since all I did was Ask them how they were, Listened to the response, Grunted appropriately, And used the simple Words my parents labored To teach me: Thank you. You are welcome. I appreciate your time. Isn’t it sad that such Simple words, once common, Elicit a compliment? I’m not particularly kind, At least not by design, Although I admit that when I Can, I try to slow down and Look people in the eye. I do say as I pass beggars When I have no spare change, “God bless you.” At some point, These were the common Courtesies of the day. And now, this counts as a kindness. A pity and a fact. God bless you, each and every one When I pass by. Even if I don’t say the words aloud.
I just finished my summer as the registrar at camp. I've been there for some 20 years. Among other things, I give out ice packs and band aids. Over the years I have asked kids who come in and want something that if that special word is missing, I can't help them. Often they look at me in wonderment, and then you can see the lightbulb go on as they say please, and then, thank you. It is so amazing. The older kids who know me from past years know how to ask for something and how to show gratitude. My time there hopefully has paid dividends elsewhere.