More Than a Meal Deal

Yesterday, my girlfriend and I met up for dinner to catch up and visit about what was going on in both of our lives. We decided to go to Arby’s because we had a special coupon for a 2 for 1 Roast Beef Sandwich combo. Never to give up a bargain, we went and hopped in line. In front of us we couldn’t help but notice an older man with his granddaughter holding the same coupon we had. 
April took note of the similiarty and she said to the man, “Hey, we have the same coupon too!” The man laughed and started to visit with us. He asked us if we were college students here in town, we both said no, but I admitted that I had just graduated this past May. “Where from?” He replied. “Oklahoma State.” I exclaimed. “What was your major?”, He asked. I went on to say that my degree was in Agricultural Leadership and currently am a speaker who likes to write in addition to speak to audiences.
 He was interested in my writing and asked what I wrote on. I proceeded to tell him that I had just recently wrote a book on leadership. Immediately, he asked if I had a copy and wanted to buy one. Luckily, I had one in my car, I brought it to him and he insisted I sign it to him. In the book, I wrote to him, “Thank you for your kindness and the time you took to be interested in us two “college students.” He soon told us good bye and made us feel valued. My girlfriend and I were both touched by the fact that someone was willing to take the time to visit and show genuine concern for us and our futures.
We went to Arby’s for a bargain on a tasty meal, but we ended up leaving with so much more than meal deal, we left with a feeling of value, a feeling of respect, a feeling of worth. Some may not think this post means very much, but I have a “What If” scenario for you. Lately, many have debated how our nation could regain its greatness again. WHAT IF the secret to regaining our country’s greatness was in the hands of you and me? WHAT IF the secret simply hinged upon our behavior toward others? Could the rebirth of our greatness be possible as a result of individual authenticity, kindness, and sincerity? 
If we were all to take a microscope to the memories of our lives, we could see the positive effects a simple random act of kindness had on us. Look at the issues facing this country and generation, an argument could be made that they are all indirectly or directly a result of poor self-image, worth, and lack of kindness. If America is determined to regaining its greatness, perhaps the actions of a benevolent nation and an altruistic people will speak loud enough to restore it. 
Never did I think I would leave an Arby’s inspired, however, not only did I leave inspired, but valued, motivated, full of food, energy, and most of all, impacted by one man’s action to be kind. Hopefully, after reading this post you will be impacted by his actions too. 🙂