Gentle Reminder

As the holiday season approaches, many of us will travel near and far to our loved ones homes.  We will gather around the tables to share family nostalgia and folklore while in the midst of this revelry we are creating new memories.

Vintage Suitcases

On a recent trip to my childhood home, we made a stop at a local diner in the middle of New York state at a diner that didn't look too threatening. There were lights on, cars parked in the driveway and a catering van that looked like it was still in use.

All good signs.

We were on a trip that would total about 7 hours in a car with a 9 month old that wanted to get out of his car seat. No amount of snacks was keeping him in his car seat. So needless to say we were thankful for this modest oasis. It was dated, the tables were made of brown formica and someone was selling various signs adorned with fake flowers with sayings such as "Gone Fishing" and "I Love Mom."

Charming. I'm sure.

Simple Joy Paperie

We enjoyed the fact that they didn't care that our child ran around to burn off some energy. There was an odd peace there, a little bit of calm that did not go unnoticed. We chalked it up to being grateful to get food in our bellies and not hear any crying for 45 minutes.

Upon paying our bill,  I saw this sign next to the register. It read:

TO OUR GUESTS

Because this restaurant is a human institution to serve people, and not solely a money making organization, we hope that God will grant you peace and rest while you are under our roof.

May those that love you be near you in thoughts and dreams. Even though we may not get to know you, we hope that our food will be good and you will be comfortable and happy as if you were in your own house.

May the business that brought you our way prosper. May every call you make and every message you receive add to your joy. When you leave, may your journey be safe.

We all are travelers. From "birth till death" we travel between the eternities. May these days be pleasant for you, profitable for society, helpful for those you meet, and a joy to those who know and love you best. 

I have never heard something so moving in a restaurant and so truthfully felt while being there. It was one of those moments when you feel so privileged to have had an acquaintance. 

And so I cannot think of a better way to start our holiday season by wishing everyone the same. "May every call you make and every message you receive add to your joy." and "may your journey be safe."

But most of all, aside from the grit and grind of the holidays. Try your best to be a "joy to those who know you and love you best!" (Yes, even the ones that annoy you.)

Best wishes as we begin this holiday season. 

Be nice!

xoxo