I usually try to dazzle my readers with my photographic talents but today I think this humble picture speaks volumes.
A small, local grocery store recently opened near me in Palo Alto. Because I’m my mother’s daughter, raised to support local businesses by doing business there, I stopped in. It’s a manageable size, nice salad bar and has some unique offerings along with the basics. Expensive, of course, but I’m immune to sticker shock after years of shopping at Whole Foods.
When I checked out, the most amazing thing happened. The clerk showed me how to close my salad box so it didn’t constantly open. It turns out that you hook the closure from underneath so whatever is in the box applies weight to the sides keeping the box closed. I continue to be amazed as I look at the picture above. How could I have failed to figure this out…
I’ve been doing it wrong all these years. Sigh. I always fold the sides in like this.
Maybe you all figured this out years ago, but I feel like I’ve been struggling with these boxes for years and no one (I mean ever) showed me a better way to close them. Until now. I’ve been set free. My prayers answered. Sometimes it’s the small things, you know.
So I thought I’d do my part for humanity by passing this on. For those of you, like me, who think that prepared foods are an essential food group and who use salad bars to avoid chopping vegetables, take note. You no longer have to suffer the indignity of take-away boxes coming open, spilling food and generally ruining your mojo.
I really need to find that clerk and tell her what she’s done for me. She took the time to show me a better way to close the box. She did it without making me feel like an idiot and she did it without being asked. Simple kindness.
Sometimes when I really pay attention, I see evidence that people are really good. If I string enough of these moments together, how could my life not feel simple and good?
I’ve had a hard time getting back into writing my blog but I feel better already today. As promised, I’m trying to tap into the things I love to help reignite my joy. I’m told grief is a process and I can attest to that. But friends and family carried me through Father’s Day last weekend. And an upcoming trip will give me lots of time with dear old friends and the opportunity to enjoy the restorative powers of Pictionary and other family games.
Enjoy your small moments wherever you can. They are the golden threds running through the fabric of our lives. No matter how humble, they matter.
Boonedoggler 