GoodMorning

 Dear Readers,

This morning, as I dragged myself out of bed after yet another night of questionable sleep, I ventured out to take out the trash. Nothing unusual, just me, the bald guy with a long white beard and a scar across my head, a look that can make anyone shudder or scream “wise sage” or “extra in a Viking movie,” depending on the lighting.

The sanitation crew came by, but there was a new guy today. He seemed startled when I greeted him with a cheery, “Good morning!” Maybe it was my appearance. Maybe he wasn’t expecting a trash guy to be greeted like a celebrity at a red carpet-event. Who knows what went through his mind? Perhaps he thought, Who is this Shrek-looking fellow, and why is he so friendly?

He nodded, a bit hesitantly, grabbed the trash, and went on his way. As he left, I said with a smile, “Thank You”. I couldn’t help but chuckle to myself. Life’s funny like that small gestures like a simple “Good Morning & Thank You” can catch people off guard.

To the world, let this be a little reminder: beneath the beards, scars, or even startled expressions, we’re all just people, doing our best to make it through the day. We’re all God’s children, worthy of kindness and connection. So, whether you’re the one taking out the trash or the one picking it up, a smile and a kind word can make the world just a little brighter even if it’s coming from someone who looks like they just walked off the set of Shrek!

Jacob M