my waving buddy

In this less than friendly world there are pockets of kindness. Oh yes there are. One of them is my waving buddy. He's an older gentleman, skin the color of dark chocolate and a fuzz of gray hair on his head. He drives a white pick up truck and he parks in the same place every day. He is a crossing guard for children going to elementary school and he is my waving buddy.

For two years he has waved and smiled at me every time I caught his eye as I drove to work in the mornings. He has one of those marvelous smiles that light up his entire face, and his teeth are white as white can be. Wonderful!  He exudes genuine friendliness, warmth and welcome greeting to all who pass his corner. He is never less than pleasant, and he is always at his post. Rain or shine.  His demeanor seems to glow with contentment for life. I think he probably knows Jesus. He knows who he is and were he is headed. And he knows how to be kind and friendly to others. No matter who you are.

Last Friday, my waving buddy wasn't there. He was not at his post, and my morning didn't feel right with him gone. Today, in his place was this young woman sitting in a lawn chair, sullen and not waving. She was smoking. She did not smile. She did not wave. She doesn't know the corner she occupies was formerly graced by a great man. Perhaps I should stop and tell her.

"Excuse me, miss. But my waving buddy is gone. You have taken his place. You have big shoes to fill, young lady. Get off that lawn chair, put out your cigarette and start waving. Smile, at least."
I don't suppose she would be impressed. But she needs to know.  Some one needs to tell her.

But maybe she has never been fortunate enough to have a waving buddy: someone you can count on for a smile and a wave every day.  Maybe she needs to be introduced gently. Maybe, I should just smile at her and wave. Yes,  I think thats what she needs:  I will become her waving buddy. She looks like she could use a friend.

Meanwhile, I pray that my first waving buddy is okay, and that he is still smiling and waving somewhere.

God bless you, my first waving buddy, where ever you are.
o/