Tea and Talk

When you think of England, having a cup of tea often comes to mind. I have offered tea and had it offered to me over the past 13 days and each time I have been warmed by the experience. Yesterday, I met Vernon. He was sitting off to the side of the trail, trying to shelter himself from the windy and wet weather while he sat and had a cup of tea from his thermos. While I tend to greet everyone I pass, my greeting also was to make sure he was okay. Vernon, I learned, was 2 weeks shy of his 93rf birthday and he prided himself on taking the same looped footpath every Saturday. He said it takes him about 3 1/2 hours. He walks alone, with two canes and a small backpack that holds his thermos and rain gear. His steps are slow but determined. Vernon mentioned he was traveling my way but he worried his pace would delay me. I told him I really had nothing but time and his stories were ones that he needed to share as much as I needed to hear. He spoke of being a child during WW 2, seeing the search lights in the night sky and the watching and hearing the bombs falling. He spoke of current day wars and challenges and how he worried that his 70 year old daughter didn’t walk enough. He pondered about how the world changes and stays the same. He talked about working as a joiner and living a modest life. He said he might be considered a poor man but how could that be when he had all “this” and he pointed his cane out in front of him. When it came to where our paths diverged, he obliged my request for a photo and then gave me a sincere hug. I felt as if I were parting with my own grandfather. I am so thankful I slowed down enough to see the treasure of a man who was right there waiting for me. Is there someone you see who needs a cup of tea or a walk? It is you who will be blessed if you slow down and partake.