Sous Chef Marilyn

Last year, I was enlightened by the janitor of Cary. He treated everyone with joy no matter who you were or how well he knew you. See Salt and Pepper for more information BUT all you need to know is he'd have a smile, give a fist bump, and say "What's up my brother?" and end with "Have a good day my brother!" He taught me to be and see Christ in small interactions. Sadly, he is not the janitor anymore, but Marilyn reminds me of him.

Marilyn:

Marilyn is the morning breakfast swipe lady at Ford Dining Court. Most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays I get up early enough to get breakfast and have my small interactions with Marilyn in the Dining Court. They rarely last longer then 2 sentences back and forth, but here is what I appreciate:

1) Marilyn always smiles or says good morning. Before I was reading the Pslams when I woke up, it was the first positive external thing in my day and I could always count on it.

2) Marilyn somehow makes the weather a plus. When it is cold outside, she is thankful that she is indoors. When it is warm, she is grateful for the weather. Weather is a frequent component of our conversation. Most people can easily find a negative, but she always twists it positively.

3) Marilyn says thank you for me just swiping in. Reflecting on this, I am often so bothered by being underappreciated, but I rarely notice feeling overappreciated. Marilyn overappreciates me because really she serves me and then thanks me for it. Thank you Marilyn for adding gratefulness where it isn't needed.

Marilyn I am very thankful for our small interactions in Ford Dining Court. I try when I get the chance to repay you and ask you how you are. I love your warmth in receiving the conversation. I hope you know you are appreciated. The world needs more of your grace in small interactions!