True strength.

[Dennis S]

There is a cement bench by the bus station in San Juan, Puerto Rico. If you looked closely, you would see that a discarded cardboard box had been folded flat and rested on the seat of the bench. That caught my eye, and I gradually realized the folded box provided a small degree of comfort to this old, and very thin woman. A small amount of cushion between old bones and cold cement.

Our eyes met, and she approached carefully. I was momentarily lost on the streets of the oldest part of San Juan, looking for a bus line. There was a moment where I thought she could tell I was lost, and was coming to help. And then I could tell, by looking at her eyes, that she couldn’t see much beyond my dark shape in the bright sun. I spoke no Spanish, and she spoke no English. But soon enough I understood-she was begging for coins. That box was folded on the bench because she was there all day long. I so admired the strength of this woman. The small amount of money that I won’t even miss helped to cause this beautiful smile. There was a young girl waiting for the bus who spoke English and Spanish. At my request she asked if the woman would give permission for me to take her picture. She said yes, and I am able to share it with you. I am sure she was back on the bench today-money is temporary, no matter how careful you are. She has no reason to think that I would be sitting here looking at her picture. She doesn’t know that I found great value in the example of her courage and strength. The world is full of strong courageous people. And some are closer than you think.

 

[Mb]

Dear Dennis:

Your very sweet story reminded me of something that happened during my husband's recent hospitalization.

He and I have a policy that we always give change or dollars to people who are in need, on the streets. I know some may argue that, but we have always tried to remember "There but for the grace of God...."

Like everyone here, when my husband was brought up to surgery, he had to remove his wedding band, watch, and the chain that holds his medals. He of course, gave them to me for safe keeping.

I was at a stop sign, and an elderly man was on the street, begging. I immediately reached into the section of my pocketbook where I keep loose change, reached in without looking and gave him perhaps two or three dollars. About a mile down a four lane expressway, I realized that was where I had put my husband's wedding band. When I got to the hospital, I searched, and indeed, I had given the man the wedding band my husband has worn for 38 years. I cannot tell you how badly I felt....and still feel. Each time afterwards passing that area, I looked for the man, hoping that he had not as yet pawned it. I've never seen him again. When my husband's hand finally lost the extra fluid from the surgery, I had to tell him what happened. Like the gentleman he is, he told me that was OK. I know it upset him, but thank God he loves me, and forgives my carelessness. I can only hope that this was indeed still part of God's plan, the wisdom of which is not mine, but His.

May His blessings be forever with you, for your generosity.

Marybeth

 

[Mary]

Thank you, Dennis, and to all those who pay it forward.

 

[Dennis S]

Marybeth

Marybeth

You were not careless, in my opinion. And you have the beginnings of a wonderful story if you have a chance to think & then write about it. I think there are great truths just below the surface of this experience.

 

[Ross]

Whenever I look into an aged face like that, I can't help but wonder what all they have seen and done in their lives. They always have fascinated me.

 

[Mb]

Dear Dennis:

I have actually given it some thought.....I do know what you mean. I have come to realize particularly this past year, that God has a reason, for everything. He sends us signs or messages, if we just listen and look. I will admit that clarity eludes me on this one...

I often think, when I see a poor person, on the streets, begging, that what if it were myself, or someone I know. Or even, what if God put that person there, in my path, not as a test, but a challenge, to live the faith for that one moment. A test of character, as it were. Deep.

Marybeth