Day 1078 Low Tide

 

Another beautiful beach day, with an unusually low tide. When the tide is low, you can walk around the rocks that are usually a barrier to the extended landscape. Yesterday was one of those days when you felt like you could walk forever—although Tim and I kept our stroll fairly short. Lounging in my beach chair was the only place for me, while listening to my friends defend their black clothing and argue that white pants aren’t the senior women’s summer uniform. (For the record, I still stand by my original thoughts on both counts.)

Either way, I enjoyed their banter. And whether they know it or not, I bet they’ll toss in a splash of color the next time they reach for an all-black ensemble. I may even show up at our next gathering dressed head-to-toe in black just to get them going again… just kidding!

Anyway, before I spark another color war, I’ve got a feel-good story that won’t get anyone’s white panties in a twist.

I had to run into the grocery store to grab a couple of things—yes, I was on a quest for my beloved cherry plums—but I ended up leaving with nothing but a plain bagel. With just a bagel in hand, I efficiently headed to the self-checkout. I had no cash, so I used my debit card and requested $20 cash back. The machine spit out the receipt, I grabbed it and my bagel, and left—completely forgetting the $20 I’d just requested.

It didn’t even cross my mind again until six hours later when, out of nowhere, it hit me: I had left the money in the checkout machine. Ugh!

Being the foolish optimist I am, I headed back to the store and went straight to the self-checkout counter. I explained the situation, fully aware it was a long shot, and asked if anyone had turned in the cash. They asked me which checkout I had used, and then—like a small miracle—pulled out an envelope, smiled, and handed me my $20!

Holy cow, was I surprised. Even for a foolish optimist, I figured the odds were slim. Maybe people are more honest than we give them credit for—or maybe they're afraid they're being watched on some kind of candid camera. Either way, I left the store pleased as punch and so grateful for the goodness that still exists in the world.

It’s the little moments of unexpected kindness that remind us there's still a lot of heart in the world. And sometimes, even a plain bagel day can end with something truly golden.