Tiara, Cape and Wand.

I posted a short list of friends who I think could and are saving the world, one way or another. Many were left off, not because I thought they couldn’t save the world but just because of space. But now I must devote a bit more space. Yesterday, in the Publix bakery, I was waiting my turn when the woman ahead of me got her birthday cake. It had a Silver Sparkly Tiara and Magic Wand on it, and it said “Happy Birthday Princess” and something else I couldn’t read in the few seconds I could see it. I said something like ‘There is going to be a very happy princess in your house’ and the mom just said ‘Yes she will’, put the cake in the wagon and left.

The thing is, she was a black woman, and I got to thinking about all the crap her daughter may will face growing up in a world so divided by race and hatred. It bothers me greatly that this thought came, unbidden, to my consciousness. And has stayed. I wish I could make that Wand a real magic one, and the Tiara golden with precious gems. And I wish I could wave the wand and make one little girl safe forever. But no, not going to happen. And then a moment of joy came, and I realized that one little girl would have a real wand and tiara for a while. She would believe. I hope her optimism for her future is rewarded with hope and success. If I were the praying kind, I would pray. I am not, so I will just hope.

Image: Facebook

Walking Away? Think Thrice.

This really resonates with me. When I first saw it on Facebook this morning I thought “good thought to share” and shared it. But I have been thinking about it and wondering why it resonated. The answer is simple: I have been on both ends of this. When I was a young and callow fellow, matters of the heart were mysterious to me. I was afraid of girls, then women, and of rejection. I played at being a man, but mostly missed the mark. I regret the hurts I caused, and wish there were some way to just say “I’m sorry. I was a jerk.” Doesn’t work that way, though, does it? So I have forgiven myself, which is the first place all forgiveness must begin. And, during the same period, I was walked away from a time or two as well. I have forgiven them too.

For many years now, I have tried not to be a jerk. I think I mostly have succeeded, but it is for the world to really judge.

As for you, the reader, take this away: Look carefully for who is waiting, and think many times before you walk away.

Image: Facebook.