Haven't made a post in a long time. Today is the day, because I made an important realization yesterday.

This young man (sixteen years younger than myself) has changed me. He has taught me to tune out negativity and focus in on the gifts that everyone brings to this world. He has made me a better person for this, and I am truly grateful.

Late yesterday afternoon, while shopping for Valentine's cards, I encountered four grown adults arguing in a Hallmark store over who had the right to move to the newly opened cash register position first. The arguing pairs (two grown women versus a husband wife team) escalated their bickering to the point of name calling, expressing continuous profanities and even exchanging racial slurs. It was such a disappointment to see. Such a sad reflection on society.

The bickering went on for over five minutes, with many of us regular calm folk forced to stand captive to the nonsense while standing in line. Just a horrific experience. Never ever experienced something like that in the past. I was stunned! These people were relentless.

It got to the point where no one could mistake what was going on in the store. Their management seemed unsure as to what to do, because things were getting really heated and loud. Heated to the point, that I couldn't take it anymore. Especially, because there were a few young children in line with their mothers maybe 10' away. I don't take kindly to all of that profanity being used around children.

Did something I would never have done before. I got out of my line and went over to the other line where the war was being battled with hurtful words. I stood beside the people and simply said, "Look people - try to take a step back and calm down - everyone is here to purchase Valentine's for their loved ones - and look what you are doing - is this anyway to love? - look at those children down there in line - is this what you want them to learn? - hate is such an ugly thing - can't you all just be adults and let it be - it is a place in a line - no need for all of this - it isn't good for anyone."

Don't get too excited now. No one threatened me with bodily injury. Peace didn't ensue. I got the "what are ya nuts" look! There was a brief timeout in the argument. Then, they picked up right where they left off! Had my say though, and it felt good. That's all.

Oh yeah, and the people in my line insisted I take my old spot in the line. Nice people. The cashier told me I was brave and muttered something about all of God's children. Nice woman.

Not looking for any kudos. Not tooting my own horn. Just trying to say that the world would be such a great place if everyone could remember that everyone is special, and that it is never okay to lash out with hatred against anyone.

Backing down off of my soapbox now. Thanks David Roland Cook. You've made me a courageous defender of decency.