~* STRAWBERRY MILKSHAKE *~

I read this poem written by another BC survivor, she wrote it the day of her diagnosis. She went to a McDonalds and ordered a strawberry milkshake...the girl behind the counter was laughing with someone and not really paying attention to her. I cried when I read this, I have not cried in over 6 months...

The woman stood before me, her eyes were rimmed in red. I looked right past the distress I saw to listen to what she said. "I'd like a strawberry milkshake,medium will do." I turned around to get it and never thought it through.

I didn't think what might have caused her eyes to be so red.It might have been her makeup or something someone said.She was a stranger and I was busy and couldn't take the time. Several customers were waiting behind her in the line.

But as she got out her wallet to get money with which to pay, I saw her take a Kleenex and whipe a tear away.As she turned to leave the counter,milkshake clutched in hand, something deep inside me said this woman needs a friend.

I though about her all that day and what could have made her sad.I wish I could have turned back time or a crystal ball I had.Then I would have known the news her doctor told.I could have took the time to smile while the milkshake was being sold.

I can't go back and change the past and do it all again, but I can try to smile more when someone is in pain.I can take the time to listen when they are standing there to pay, and notice what is not being spoke as well as what thhey say.

So, I have taught my daughters not to judge the ones they meet.Be kind and smile,have gentle words for everyone they greet.All the people that cross their paths have stories of their own,they could be sad and lonely,feeling very much alone.

It only takes a second to impact one's day.The choice is ours to make it count by watching what we say.You won't regret the time it took to go that extra mile.Give someone what they might need most.......a warm friendly smile.