CREATURES OF HABIT
People are creatures of habit – and I’m no exception to that rule. It’s natural to get into a routine and when we do we bump into others and their routines in the process.Brad and I meet, or try to meet, every other Saturday for our Bible study; one weekend the in-depth study, the next to share and compare. We see a lot of the same folks at the Starbucks we meet at and have been for over a year now.
There’s Joe and his gang of bikers, the bicycle kind. They want me to ride with them on their seventy-mile route… I’ve done that once. I’m not sure I’ll be taking him up on his offer anytime soon. Any ride close to seventy miles can be seen in the grimace on my face afterwards. When those guys are finished they look like they just rode across the street.
There’s the retired guy that looks like Art Carney’s brother who refuses to go anywhere without his mini shepherd, but not his leash. I’ve come to realize he’s a better master than I am… I almost treasure my time away from my dog Larry.
There’s the girl with long brown hair, I think her name is Laura, who burps with her mouth open… a lot. Of course, there are always new faces… and I keep an eye out for folks, cause each one of them is a story in the making.
I don’t stare – I swipe glances. The man sitting at the round two-person table next to us, behind Brad, looked like a blue-collar guy at first glance. Ball cap, distinguished grey whiskers and a red and white lined flannel shirt.
The man was carrying a McDonald’s plastic bag that was knotted at the two handles for easier carrying – that’s what raised my left detective eye like a red flag; there’s no McDonald’s close to the Starbucks Brad and I meet at.
The man slipped inside without catching my attention, but he wouldn’t on his way back. I heard him coming behind me – sounded like a limp or a shuffle. “Good mornin!” he greeted Brad with a warm voice and genuine nod.
“Mornin,” Brad replied.
I didn’t move my head but glanced toward the ground as he passed by me. He was sporting old leather slippers that at one time had that orangish kind of hue to them. His were mostly black and the fine texture an ancient memory.
He had on blue socks. The kind of sky blue socks that screamed he’d gotten them for free. I saw how the shuffling sound was made before I heard it again. The man lifted his right knee high, high enough to drag the sole of his slipper that was only attached to about even with the arch of his foot.
The man kicked the floppy sole out in front of him so that it landed on the concrete before his sky blue stocking foot could. The man eased himself back into a metal chair again… with water… the free kind in the plastic cup.
We’re all creatures of habits and all of us carry some good ones and some bad ones. I have the habit of doing whatever it takes to have food, shelter, and clothing for my family and myself. Although I have a hunch that it has more to do with the amazing grace of God than it does me.
The homeless man sat sideways, leaning against the metal railing, his ear toward us… timing in this life is never by chance.
If the blue socked homeless man becomes a regular, I’ll look forward to learning his story, each soul has one.
I’ll keep you posted. And don’t be too surprised if you see me in my black sport socks hoofin’ it across the Starbucks parking lot.
Hazel Moon
Sunday, June 7, 2015 @ 6:14 pm
Today our Pastor asked us to take a piece of white paper and write on it the names of all those friends and family we are praying for. We were then asked to tape it to a wall that he indicated. After a few moments he asked us to begin to read the names and requests and to silently pray over these needs. There are many problems in life, some from unwise choices; others just part of being human. Each name has a story and our desire was that these stories would change for the better. Your new friend at Starbucks was probably tired and was seeking a cool place of refuge. I imagine he was hoping for a free cup of coffee and a roll. Perhaps he gleaned a bit of your Bible study and could carry that away with him. Food for the spirit does satisfy hunger of the soul. Your post was encouraging as always.
Lisa notes
Sunday, June 7, 2015 @ 6:36 pm
You’re so awesome, Floyd. Keep us posted on these stories. I love how your eyes are attuned for more people to know and love.
Barb
Sunday, June 7, 2015 @ 6:54 pm
Love how observant you are, Floyd. I often write at one of two local coffee shops (we have as many coffee shops as we have traffic lights in our little town – 6 of each) and it’s always fun to be able to say hi to the other “regulars.” I’m a people person so writing at coffee shops helps me feel like I’m at a party even though I usually completely tune everyone out once I start writing. It makes writing fun.
Cheryl
Sunday, June 7, 2015 @ 11:13 pm
What an amazing story this is…I know you will stay alert for this poor soul, and it is my hunch that you will help him in some way, too. God bless you for caring so much about others and staying in tune with their needs. So many just pass them by and pretend not to see. You look into the heart, and you show us so clearly with your words…it is like we are right there studying that Bible with you and your friend. Thank you for sharing your heart here, brother.
Hazel Moon
Monday, June 8, 2015 @ 5:24 pm
Thank you for sharing your awesome post with us here at “Tell Me a Story.” http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Voni
Monday, June 8, 2015 @ 8:48 pm
There is almost nothing so compelling as almost anyone else’s life story. And it takes a soft heart to listen to those stories and care about the people who hold those stories. Thanks for sharing and reminding me, Floyd.
Betty Draper
Monday, June 8, 2015 @ 9:13 pm
Aren’t we humans interesting creatures. I just wonder who is watching you as you watch others. Who might be writing about the guy who comes every week in black sport socks. I’ll let you know if I read a blog post that sounds like you..hehe. People watching is one of my favorite things to do, I’m telling you we are a curious lot. You made me chuckle. Blessings.
Kim Adams Morgan
Tuesday, June 9, 2015 @ 7:59 am
Floyd, Oh how I would love to stop back here next week and read that he asked to listen in on your bible group. There is little more interesting than hearing about someone’s life story. How wonderful that you might be able to hear his and also telling him the good news of Jesus. We are never anywhere by chance. It’s all God’s plan.
Sharon
Tuesday, June 9, 2015 @ 12:11 pm
No one *paints* a scene with words like you do, Floyd. I am always transported right to your side. I have such a visual of blue-sock-man. And no, these meetings do not happen by accident. I hope you keep us posted if you see him again. Somehow I have a feeling that this is not the end of the story.
We just never know when we’ll have an *encounter* with someone – perhaps a pre-ordained appointment set up by The Master of Ceremonies! And it’s good to remember that we’re all thirsty and hungry in our own ways.
GOD BLESS!
(When I visit my mom I always go to her local Starbuck’s. On Saturdays, there’s always a ton of bikers, all decked out in their special bike gear. Me? I’m real good at re-cycling…)
Jennifer Dougan
Tuesday, June 9, 2015 @ 4:23 pm
Hi Floyd,
I was just people-watching at one of my local coffee shops this morning too. 🙂 It’s fun, huh? Getting to know the regulars and slowly becoming a regular some seasons is a neat privilege. I am crafting that this summer, and excited for that!
I like your new way of doing clip art here now, without the line through, etc. Looks nice.
May you and your family have a great week.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
June
Tuesday, June 9, 2015 @ 5:05 pm
You don’t state it outright, but I can hear your heart in this story, Floyd. There is a Godly purpose to your observations . . . looking forward to hearing more about mr. blue socks. I enjoy the art of observation myself. I want to be Sherlock Holmes when I grow up, lol. Unlike Barb {above} I can’t tune anything out – I get zero work done at the coffee shop! and nearly as much when I’m sitting on my porch! God’s creatures are all so very interesting! Have a wonder-filled week, brother.
Chuck Allen
Wednesday, June 10, 2015 @ 6:30 pm
Thanks for bringing us into the coffee shop with you and your friend. Your descriptions did a great job of setting the scene. It almost made me want to buy a coffee and sit down – and I don’t even drink that stuff. 🙂
Dan Black
Wednesday, June 10, 2015 @ 7:02 pm
I enjoy people watching at coffee shops. It’s amazing what we can learn or see when we people watch and observe their behaviors. Great post!
Bill (cycelguy)
Thursday, June 11, 2015 @ 6:19 am
I am a people-watcher also my friend. I love to watch people and even figure out their stories. Each person has a story if we just listen.
Brad
Thursday, June 11, 2015 @ 9:34 am
Great story. This story tell exactly why you are the man you are. So many people are so caught up with themselves or the moment that they don’t notice all the wonderful things around us. Your compassion for others shouts out in everything you say and do. We are so lucky to have a few people like you who care enough to notice others and offer a kind word or helping hand. It’s so true. I’ve seen you do it often I’m very blessed to have a friend like you
Joanne Norton
Thursday, June 11, 2015 @ 12:32 pm
Sure understand the issue of dealing with the homeless. In the past, did it many times, mostly here in Omaha. Even on highways, with obviously homeless ones, I’ve driven them around in some of our states. Anyhow, with First Responders and dealing with murders and family friends who also have very little opportunities to be in a quiet part of life, I know more in my heart than in my brain. Turning them to the Lord is all that counts. Would love to show you lots of stuff, Brother, but most likely can’t. If it bugs me well enough to add a piece in the next week or so, you’ll smile and rejoice for me and my many connections. Bless you… as usual, you are a treat. 😉
Saleslady371
Friday, June 12, 2015 @ 10:56 am
I was the recipient of a man’s kindness in Starbuck’s in Chicago last week when I met up for coffee with a blogger girlfriend. So I know first hand how wonderful it feels to be helped. The couple sat a few tables away and when Ceil went to the restroom, I asked him if he would take a photo of us. He took at least ten for me getting it just right. Then he asked all about Arizona. Not quite the same thing as you wrote about, but his caring came to mind.
Just like you – happy to meet a need. What a good example you are to us.
Mike
Friday, June 12, 2015 @ 4:07 pm
Hey Floyd! While at a 50th birthday party at a bar/restaurant the other night I was people watching myself. I found myself feelings sad although it was a festive occasion. In watching the people I realized how many of them just live in the moment and are directed by current circumstance. I’ll bet if polled most of them would say they believe in God, but by listening to their conversations and watching their actions, I don’t know if any of them actually follow God or really know much about Him. I’m very concerned about our Country and it’s people. I read Jeremiah, and I see their society exactly like our own. God kept warning them about not following Him and living such sinful lives without repentance. And they, like most of our Country didn’t want to hear it and refused to repent and turn back to God. I fear we may be getting to the place where our end will be like that of Israel when it was destroyed and it’s people taken into captivity.