Ever heard the phrase everything happens for a reason? Well now - TopicsExpress

Ever heard the phrase everything happens for a reason? Well now you have... I have never felt more like that than I do today. Heres a quick little story that has opened my eyes to the power of positive energy and prayer. I took two flights today heading back to MS from NYC. As I set out on my journey I headed down the jetway and I noticed a woman in front of me wearing a really cute trench coat. I complimented her and asked her where shed gotten it. After telling me that it had been given to her as a gift, we chatted briefly as we boarded our flight. When we arrived in Charlotte I hopped off the plane (after having a nice conversation with a girl from TN) ready to catch my connecting flight and make my way home. I decided to stop by the ladies room before heading to my gate -because for once I didnt have to rush. I went inside and noticed a bathroom attendant greeting everyone coming in. I automatically thought about how much I hate public restrooms but that this woman (probably in her 70s) spent most of her day in one cleaning it and making it as nice as possible for those of us who are going about our lives basically oblivious to all she does to make our potty time as pleasant as possible. As I washed my hands I heard her singing a spiritual that I couldnt understand because it was in a different language. Even though I had no idea what it meant I knew it was beautiful and it touched me. I decided to say hello and she responded with a smile and asked me about my day. Our conversation continued long enough for her to tell me she had been a widow for 7 months and that although it was hard she tried not to show it. She asked if she could hug me saying that I had been one of the only people to say hello. She worked for tips and I personally had always felt it was odd to tip in the bathroom but I dug down and found my last $5 from my trip. As I handed it to her I thought of the burger I planned to get and how unimportant it seemed now. She hugged me and began to cry saying it touched her heart that I had taken the time to talk to her but also to give even the little I had. I couldnt help but be touched by Cecile as I said good bye -with each of us promising to pray for the other. Cecile smiled and said, how could I ever forget the Rayne. I was so moved I was wiping away tears for fear of the judgement that comes along with public crying. As I reached my gate I sat on the window sill looking out and really thinking of my blessings. Just then the woman in the trench coat (from the earlier flight on the other side of the airport) walked up and offered me dinner. She said she had accidentally bought two meals and insisted I take it. She had no idea I had been hungry or that my burger plans had changed. She was just paying it forward saying my sincerity and kindness when I met her made her want to give it to me. I couldnt turn down the food and something about her made me want to know more. Turns out she and I have a lot in common -including the fact that she is from the south (we are from neighboring states) and she now lives in NYC. She and I talked between gates promising to get together once I relocate to NY. With just a little positive energy and the conscious decision to look up from my phone instead ignoring the people around me... I was able to serve my purpose, make new friends, and witness God at work. I am so thankful for everything and everyone in my life...I look forward to meeting the people I havent met... And I am forever grateful for my blessings! God works in mysterious ways and everything really does happen for a reason. It starts with a smile! If you finished reading this post thank you and I hope you find your Cecile one day soon! When you do dont let her pass you by.