Woke up this morning thinking; I know you are shocked but I do think! lol
I met a group of folks I actually pitied. They were rich and successful and part of the "beautiful" people. Turns out I owe them all a thank you. Here's why.
They were all in the BMW's, Lexisus and there were a few Mercedez there. I drove to the meeting in an old beat up 1947 CJ2 Jeep.
They all had on 2 or 3 thousand dollar taylored suits and dresses. I had on office casual. Tan trousers and a pull over collared golf type shirt with the Eagle Globe and Anchor in gold and scarlet with USMC under that in white on a black shirt.
They all had Rolexes. Even the ladies; one lady had a Boulava. I dont wear a watch.
It was an organizational meeting to set up a foundation to help disabled veterans.
A gentleman pulled me aside and pointed all this out and said I needed to "up my game" if I wanted to be part of this group. I had a come to Jesus moment with him.
A few years ago I would have been angered about someone making such a statement. Perhaps Im mellowing with age just enough for a bit of wisdom to creep in. I wasnt angry at all. A bit shocked that someone would say such a thing; but not angry or resentful.
I pointed out the old CJ-2 was fun to drive and I could enjoy the beautiful weather. It dosent go fast, but by slowing down I didnt miss as much of the Creators gift to all of us. I did "up" my apparel for the day. Normally Im in Dickies work pants and a t shirt. As for the shirt you have been looking at with contempt; I wear this one because I earned the title US Marine and I am proud to wear it. I dont need a watch when all Im usually concerned about is "right now" and I said I was there for the veterans not to make a "satement" about social status or image. I asked him if he was trying to impress the others or himself with all his "I have arrived things" or hide the fact that he wasnt happy with how he truly sees himself. I then asked if all these "things" truly made him happy deep in the part of him where only he and God can see.
You can imagine the look on his face. I said it seems to me; an old broke down veteran who's nothing more than a country boy at heart and who prefers things simple; that you all know the price of everything; but the value of nothing. Its the things you cant put a price tag on that have true value and will add meaning to your life.
They actually taught me a valuable lesson. For that I am eternally greatful to them. They gave me the opportunity to put into words how I feel; and a brief moment of honest introspection and clairty. I now wonder if I will ever be able to repay this debt I owe them.
Im not good at being a civilian or; for that matter anything close to a human being. But a moment like that made me think that there just might be hope for me.
Ill add another part to my morning meditations; Ill ask my higher power to help me appreciate and truly know the value and not just the price.
Hope y'all have a wonderful day with countless minor mircales.
D.
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