A Good Measure

Some of the nicest people work behind deli counters. Visit one in the South, and you're likely to hear:

"Hi, Darlin'!"

"Wha'd ya need, Sugar?"

"Will that be all, Hon?"

Yes, I've heard the debate over whether or not it's polite to use anything other than titles, Sir, or Ma'am. Save it, please. If someone is sincerely trying to be nice, I'll take it as-is. There are days when it makes me feel pretty good. Lady Grantham had her standards, but that was then, and this is now.

Yesterday, Evelyn took care of me at Publix. She seemed intelligent, was polite and efficient, and had a sense of humor.

After filling my first two requests, she asked, "Would you like a sample of the Baby Swiss?"

Me: "No, thank you."

Evelyn: "I offer samples because I don't want anyone to have to shop on an empty stomach."

Me: "I never have an empty stomach."

Evelyn's surprised, genuine laughter immediately followed! I laughed with her.

Later driving home, it hit me how close this is to the truth. I'm rarely hungry because there is ample food in my world. Going to bed hungry would be an intentional act of deprivation. This is not the case in other 'worlds.' How often we forget.

Earlier yesterday, I also noted it was the first day of Lent. In some years, I gave up things for Lent--like the year I gave up complaining, and my husband gave up wine. As the story goes, two weeks later, he was complaining, and I was drinking.

The thought ran through my mind, "Is there something I should give up this year?"

Maybe it's not a perfect match for Lent, but I think I will give up feeling satisfied and full. When hunger hits, it will serve to remind me of those who have no choice--followed by doing something about it. A good measure in life is how we treat the 'least of these.'

[Carolyn Fjeran, LowTide explorer/reflective writer; horticulturist & gardener; former writer for Cooperative Extension Service, Master Gardeners, and The Newnan Times-Herald]