Over the past year or so, the Mrs. and I have tried to keep a regular schedule of taking a walk downtown from our home to grab a coffee at a great little place called, ‘Snugs’. It’s a homey place with the regulars who come in nearly every day to get their morning joe like us.
The décor is made of old wood tables with mixed & matched sets, funky ark made of pencils & bottle caps, hanging lights, and lots of coffee signs. Their breakfast is to die for as well (literally… because they give such huge portions). Most importantly, though, is the always friendly face we meet on the other side of the counter who knows exactly what we’d like to order before getting there.
Today was different for me. The Mrs. is out of town and I decided to keep the tradition (and get some exercise) by taking the walk myself. Half-way there, I realized that, even though it was perfect weather, the birds were singing, and the sun was coming up, there was something very special missing.
On the way, we usually cut through a path on the Heard Museum which is one of the oldest, historical homes downtown. The shot today was of a gazebo they have on the path used for weddings and special events.
After arriving at Snugs and getting my usual, I sat down by the window where we usually sit and looked across only to see this empty chair in front of me. Man, I just couldn’t get past that feeling that part of me was missing.
On the way out, I had a chance to say hello to our head of the historical area and a friend whom we see often, Todd, who spends his mornings there reading his daily devotional. Everyone knows Todd. He’s a quiet, somewhat timid person, but you can tell he has a heart of gold.
Living in a great place like this is something you see on television. Yet, without that one person who fulfills you along the way, it all seems a bit surreal. I’m sure I’ll adjust, and she’ll be back before I know it, but that empty chair was enough for me this morning. Tomorrow is another day and we’ll keep trying to stay busy.
Distance does grow the heart fonder; if that’s possible. If anything, it helps us realize how much we have and how much people mean to us. When they’re not there, we feel the void they leave. I know parents, my mother, in particular, wrestle with not seeing their kids very often as we all live so far away today.
All of this to say I’m thankful today. I’m thankful for the Mrs. and the life we’ve built together. And, I’m praying for God to look over her while she’s away (and look over me).
I’m also praying for you today. That He will bless you with fullness of heart, joy in your spirit, and peace of mind amid this crazy world we live in. Most importantly, that if you don’t have that special one who fills a void like the Mrs. does for me, that God will take their place and give you the completeness you long for and be the joy of your day.
Wishing a blessed weekend my friend…
Brad
