Encounters

It's been said that there are angels among us. It's been a sober and reflective New Years for me. Yesterday, I went to my Mom's to celebrate the New Year with a traditional Southern News Year dinner which consists of a pork roast, black-eyed peas seasoned with salted pork, cabbage seasoned with corned beef, and cornbread. No one noticed the fact that I did not actually eat any of the stuff that had pork in it. It's one of the Jewish dietary laws I am slowly incorporating into my life. It was nice to spend time with my family, though at times, they do drive me nuts.

When I left, I had to go to the store to pick up a few things. A nice elderly man said I looked unhappy and asked if he could give me a hug. It took me by surprise but seeing that maybe he needed a hug almost as much as I, we hugged. Two strangers seeing a need and reaching out. It brightened my day and left me with a good feeling. I believe that G-d does look out after us and at times sends angels in the form of strangers to help us out.