“And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9
“My pleasure” is a phrase you have probably heard if you’ve ever eaten at a Chick-fil-a. Chick-fil-a is known for their food of course but also their philanthropic efforts in the community and what they call “The Golden Standard” of going above and beyond and simply being kind.
Parents of any toddler know how difficult eating out can be. Toddlers have a mind of their own! Their lack of verbal skills and their newfound independence can make for some humbling adventures to say the least.
One afternoon, after a routine visit to the pediatrician and many errands, my sweet 18-month-old child was becoming irritated with being trucked around in and out of the car seat. To say it nicely, by the last errand my child was “HANGRY” (Hungry + Angry) so we stopped at a Chick-fil-a.
We ordered our food and I struggled to carry everything I needed: my fussy child, drinks, ketchup, utensils, napkins and a high chair. That’s when we met Sandra, one of the employees. She touched my shoulder and in a sweet southern accents said, “Honey, just tell me where you want to sit.” She provided everything we needed, wiped off the highchair, laid a placemat on the table for him to eat off of, brought us our food, and opened his milk. When she saw the book in the kid’s meal was too old for him she brought him a better selection to choose from. She asked to refill my drink and insisted that we not clean up after ourselves. She brought me wipes to clean up Weston, threw away our trash, and talked to him while I gathered our things. I couldn’t thank her enough in which she replied, “My pleasure, I am happy I could help a young mother like yourself.”
She helped everyone in this same manner and was so enthusiastic about doing so. I was overwhelmed by how she cared for others. How refreshing this experience was! In a time when the news has so many awful events to report, my heart was warmed and overjoyed to experience such kindness. Day in and day out we can let the mundane tasks, the things we hear on the news and social media get us down. By simply being kind, however we all can make a difference in people’s daily experiences including our own. We often go visit Sandra at this particular Chick-fil-a and each time she is just as thoughtful. In return, I bring her a hand written thank you to hopefully brighten her day and return her kindness.
Meredith Lee, St. Luke’s Children’s Center Management
