What started out as a lunch date turned into an eye opening and emotional teachable moment. The "moment" came at a pizza joint in Lafayette and not in a church or classroom. It's no secret that Christina and I like food and drink. Our DVR is filled with cooking and food related travel shows. It's who we are and have been as a couple. We feel most comfortable sitting down to a few foodie shows after dinner and then calling it a night. It's appropriate that I saw my reflection while slugging down a slice and a beer.
His name is Randy. My given name is Randolph not Butch. Only teachers called me Randy. We are both in our 50's and we both have spent time behind a bar slinging drinks and making conversation. We are both good at the gift of gab. And, most importantly, we are both caring for our wives who are battling serious diseases. His wife has MS. Mine has breast cancer. Randy felt comfortable enough with us that he opened about the struggles of caring for someone by yourself. We never shared our cancer journey with Randy. It wasn't important. He needed to vent and we were there to listen and affirm that he is doing the Lord's work. It was clear to both of us that Randy's passion is to care for his bride. Mine is the same. I sell glue to bring home money but making sure Christina's coffee is hot and tasty is how I start each day. I end each day laying down with the love of my life. Randy does the same.
Randy was quick to note that he is lucky. "I knew the teenager that was involved in that fatal crash last week. She lost her two friends on a joyride." Even in the midst of physical, emotional and financial chaos, Randy realizes that he is blessed. He gave us a great gift today. He also gave me a glimpse of who I am and what is important in life. I saw my reflection today and liked what I saw. Except for the string of cheese hanging off my mouth. I could have done without that.
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