Two men come into a cafe.
One is dressed to the nines, the other, rags. He asks politely, if he sweeps the floor, would they give him breakfast. “Just cafa an a roll,” he says. The man in charge agrees.
The spruced up one says,”Look at him, if he stays, I’m calling the health department.”
I’m watching this scene like a one-act play, about to join the cast.
“This man is willing to work for something he needs,” I say, trying to keep my composure. “I find it very inspiring, not to mention honorable, and all you seem to see is some unfortunate packaging.”
He looks at me before taking a couple of bills from, what appears to be, a Tiffany money clip, tossing them on the counter.
“Just feed-em fast so he gets the fuck outta here.”
“l want no chair-dy,” the man says, “you keep yer money, cause yer gonna need it, ackin like that.”
Boy, spoken like a true apostle who, despite his tatters, proudly leaves.
I sit on the fence deciding whether to guard my peace or rip Senor Pompous a new one. Then I remember something I heard in 12 Step…rather than you, let God speak.
So, God, you’re on.
“Believe me when I say, you will pay a price higher than coffee and a roll for humiliating that poor man. I feel for you sir, having such a cruel and heartless streak.”
He looks surprisingly sullen and a bit embarrassed before taking flight. When he gets to the door, he turns, while waiting for the verbal assault I assume is en route, yet none comes.
He looks deflated, his bluster drained. I guess that’s what happens when God steps up to the plate.
Hey God, when you’re good, you’re really good.
SB
I’m so glad that the working man didn’t let Mr. Snooty pay for his breakfast. But I’m sorry that he decided to leave, rather than stay, sweep, and eat.
Let’s hope that Snooty Pants heart did grow a tiny bit after leaving.
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There are so many men in New York like him. He’s gone viral.
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Can’t argue with the big ole truth bomb, no sir you can not.
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He surprised me. Thought he’d come out swinging after that.
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You shut him down. When someone truly knows their an asshole, it’s shocking to hear it out loud, other than in your own head. *Bam*
You didn’t even need a baguette!!
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One wasn’t handy. Starbucks should carry them.
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I’m surprised you didn’t run after the poor guy and give him your breakfast. That was just cruel.
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I’m trying to be more contained and less reactive. I spoke up but didn’t pull my usual Joan of Arc on her steed. I do that too often.
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I love how you always step up and make a statement that needs to be heard not just by the offender but the offended and the witnesses. Bravo!
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Kind words Patricia. Thank you.
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Hey Susannah: when you’re good, you’re really good. No metaphysical required. Give YOURSELF a pat on the back.
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You don’t care for my God references. I know that. Oh well.
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That’s true but, more importantly, I care for you and it distresses me to see you diverting praise due to you, onto your imaginary friend.
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It’s my way of expressing kindness. Tact is an art, one I’ve tried to hone over the years. I slip though, in my self-righteousness. Have to watch that.
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I believe that most people speak before really thinking about what they are going to say. We talk from habit, the habit of our parents, our school friends, our current friends, and so on. We aren’t speaking from our souls, which is our real self. God has words for those – thanks for using them.
Scott
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Taking pause helps. To be sure.
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