An Open Letter

Dear Mr. Grocery Bagger Man,

I know you were hired by our largest grocery chain to bag groceries despite your disabilities. In fact, this chains hires many people with disabilities as part of its service to our community. I also know that many many people probably look at you and think about all the things you "can't" do. In other words, they see you as a limited man.

Today, I want to encourage you, though. For I see you as a huge bundle of possibility and promise. For today you were my 9-year-old's biggest blessing.

When we piled all the groceries on the belt and you saw his birthday cake, you immediately noticed him. My little man. You sang to him with great gusto...and even used his name! (Thanks to that cake.) You talked to him about the exciting event that will happen for him later---his "mini-party". You even noticed his soccer shirt and offered to come play soccer at the party with him and his friends.

And then, you did the unthinkable.

You reached in your wallet and handed this nine-year-old boy that you do not know a dollar and said again, "Happy Birthday!"

Your possibilities are endless! You have a great capacity to bless people and to make them smile.

This Mother is glad our paths crossed today! For you reminded me just how simple it is to put a smile on someone else's face. I mean he was beaming just from the song...but you even went an extra mile to make him feel so special.

My son and I said a special prayer of thanks for you and your blessing today. We asked God to send you a special blessing in return.

Thank you,

A Grateful Mother