Tuesday

I have to tell you what happened to me at lunch the other day.

I was just looking for something quick and easy, so I pulled into the McDonald's drive-through. I got my usual - a Big Mac and those fries we all love - and I decided to sit inside for a bit. I picked a booth by the window, thinking I'd just watch the traffic and have a quiet meal.

But as I sat there, I realized I'd picked "our booth". Or least I felt like it. I took a bite of the burger and it was like a time machine. I wasn't just a person alone; I was back in a different year. I could almost hear her laughing about how I always managed to get special sauce on my shirt. I could see her steal one of my fries, even though she wasn't hungry.

She just...........showed up. Uninvited and unexpected.

I'll be honest with you - I still miss her. Sometimes it's a dull ache, but other times, like in the middle of a Tuesday, it's a sharp pull at the heart. Those "precious memories", as the old song says, they really do linger. They don't care if you're in the middle of a crowded restaurant or a quiet living room.

It caught me off guard for a second, the room felt a little to big. But then I realized that though the chair across me was empty, the memory of her was sitting right there with me. And in a strange way, that was enough to get me through lunch.

Has this happened to you lately? Did someone "show up" while you were just trying to get through your day?

I'd love to hear your story if you're willing to share. Please feel free to contact me at: willis@christiancaregivingministry.org

I read every single one. And I'd love to hear about the person you're missing.