Masterpiece in the Midst

Whenever there is opportunity to visit another place, I thumb through vacation guides to the the best museums. I pretty much like them all; from historic to furniture to lovely watercolors and sculptures. A walk through would catch me eyeing pieces, reading the nearby synopsis, and making odd comments to my husband. Then I move on. Wall after wall, row after row would experience a similar review; each piece honorable in its own right. Turning the corner dazzling pigments dancing in brilliant design came into view. Its deep artful message slammed into my face, my eyebrows arched and mouth agape.

I ogled and swooned. A masterpiece.

I visited another place the other day; the grocery store. Expertly maneuvering around loaded pallets and awkward displays, I piled high the grocery cart. Often my wristwatch beckoned, the golden Roman numerals winking at me. Would I finish all the chores on the list? Other shoppers sped by in a cosmic swirl. Suddenly the edge of my carriage slammed into a large, open box and its goods began rolling into oncoming shoppers. There was one individual in particular, a lanky older man. I watched as he turned his carriage to head off the rolling barrage.

With a smile he waved to people, lifting his cane from the cart and fending off escaped cans. As shoppers joined in clearing the aisle, kindly greetings were exchanged, a charitable spirit shared. I moved forward - although a bit edgy since I caused all this - to get a better look at this man. We shared a bit of small talk. Angular cheeks lifted with laughter, a sparkle lit his eye. As we shared, this gentleman's left hand held tight to the handle of the carriage. And although his right shoulder and arm hung weakly to his side, his demeanor stood proud. A bandage covered part of his forehead, which I soon discovered, was due to a recent fall. I found out other things as well ... his life as a traveling salesman, the five children he and his wife had raised, various community activities he engaged in. He said he had lived well and was continuing to do so. This handicap made life more challenging, but don't we all have imperfections that we have to deal with? Instead of always seeing the struggle, he believed that everyday was an opportunity. He was earnest to do all he could, seeking happiness in all his days.

Flushed with with both personal conviction and inspiration, I chatted with him for several more minutes, which I have to say is a long time for a grocery store. Realizing life challenges, this gentleman embraced mind and body with a spirit of determination and will power. He had refashioned himself with emotional health, rendering a portrait of human strength and fortitude.

I was awed and humbled. And when I am again grocery shopping, I seek him out. For within this individual, I found a most wonderful masterpiece.

... and that's how I live it.