It's About Relationships

I have worked in a little store for over 2 years now. It is a home decor store, owned by a decorator and floral designer. I love it. It is small, but I have learned much. Even more important to me are the relationships that have been built. I am the youngest in our little world, therefore I am blessed to have several "mothers" around me every day. They are not just bosses or fellow employees -- they are friends, teachers, protectors (not to mention match-makers). These women are precious to me. Blessed isn't quite strong enough. I love them dearly.

These are not the only relationships that have developed since I have worked there, though they are certainly the closest. One of my favorite aspects of my job is simply the customers. Many are regulars; several come a few times a year; quite a few come in after noticing the store for the first time. But regardless of her purpose, taste or pocketbook, she brings a unique gift every time she causes the little bell to ring (and me to come scurrying to the front) : herself.
It is such a joy not only to help them with decorating their homes, which I love, but to get to know them. Each one is different; but special. Loves beauty; but not the ordinary. She wants her home to express herself; and welcome others. Being such a small business, I am able to personally get to know most of my customers and enjoy them. I love it. I experience first-hand the truth that you enjoy God when you enjoy other people.

Well, today was no different. Well, there was one difference -- the customer was a man and his 3 children. They came in to buy a mother's day gift, so one of his twin little girls told me. The other little blonde darling repeated their purpose a little later in the visit: "we're buying a valentine gift for mommy." A little mixed up; no less adorable. These visitors are not the norm but they were charming. This wonderful guy came in a very small, "girly," crowded store with 2 little girls trailing behind and a maybe-2-yr-old boy on his hip. They proceeded to VERY calmly look around the store. The only sounds to be heard from them were a few high-pitched whispers from the girls when a "pretty" object was spotted, and an occasional gentle reminder to "be careful" from their patient father. They made a selection, he took his charges to the car, returned to purchase the item, and hurried back outside to his little darlings. He was very personable, down-to-earth and good-natured. He also cared deeply for his children; that much was obvious.
I know there are other dads out there like this -- I am thankful to say mine is one of them. But it seems so rare anymore. His love for his wife and children was evident in how he spoke of them with tenderness. He was confident but humble; firm but gentle. I can't help admiring these qualities and pray to settle for nothing less in a husband if God so provides.

I know this man will probably never read this. But I somehow feel better knowing someone will.
He is one of many customers who made an impact on me. There are so many lives that go "unnoticed"....... so this is my way of noticing his and others like him.