BLESSING: The doughnut story

Did you ignore any strangers today? If so, you may have missed a blessing.

I was sitting outside a doughnut shop, enjoying a doughnut and orange juice when I saw this homeless man walking by. My first reaction was, “I hope he doesn’t notice me” and of course he did. He came up to me and asked if I could spare a cup of coffee. At that moment my heart opened. I told him sure, come inside with me. I told him to pick out a couple doughnuts and asked the lady to give him a large cup of coffee. He was so grateful. Then, as we walked outside to my table, the door swung back, hit his tray and some of the coffee spilled over onto his doughnuts, soaking them. He sat down and began to eat the mushy doughnuts and drink what was left of his coffee.

While still expressing his gratefulness, he said so sincerely, “This is a good day.” My heart sunk. Just five minutes before, I didn’t want to have anything to do with this poor old man. He was more grateful for two sloppy soaked doughnuts and a half cup of coffee than I was in my abundance. We sat there and talked for a half hour.

That was 1997 in El Cajon, Calif. I can still hear his voice and I will never forget his humble gratitude.

Hebrews 13:2 Forget not to show love unto strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

JERRY MARTIN

Post Falls