Lessons in Line

Some of life's most important lessons come without warning. You know, like my Norwegian grandmother used to say to my mother and then, my mama to me, "This could just be one of life's valuable lessons." To which my Mama and I often responded aloud or muttered under our breath, ""I hate those lessons."

But, overtime I'm trying to learn more by observation and less from personal experience. Like two days ago, I observed a lesson while waiting in line at Nordstom Rack. Poco and I enjoy back-to-school shopping, but not the long lines. So, to maximize our time, I suggested she go on ahead to Kohls next door, while I waited in line to purchase her sweater. So Poco took off, while I stood and waited.

As I shifted my stance to ease the fatigue of standing in line, I noticed the three cashiers. One older woman worked with returns. The other two stood to serve an ever increasing line of people, like me. Two young men college age, stood at one register to help one frustrated shopper. One white man and new at his job, the other dark skinned with artistic cornrows, covering his scalp. While I waited, I wondered how long he had to sit for that intricate work to get completed?

Well, the problem continued, as the customer questioned prices, then fumbled with credit card, passwords, etc. The newby kept his cool, and the experienced one remained patient and helpful. The rest of us kept shifting from one foot to another. Some rocked crying babies, others talked on phones. Finally, the customer left, and the line moved, two at a time, like antsy couples entering an Ark.

When my turn came, I said to the one who still smiled and welcomed me after helping the newby, and the disgruntled customer, "I think you deserve the Nobel Peace Prize." He laughed, then said, "I'd be happy to just get a break." Then, noting my tired legs, I said, "I bet standing is a hard part of this job." He said,"You've got that right."

So what was my lesson in line? You know, we're often nudged to thank people in the military for their service. But gazillions of people stand and serve us in other ways, too. They deserve our thanks. And need to catch a break now and then. I think of line ladies, like Pat, who stood and served in Gordon's Cafeteria for many years. And Marie, as well as chefs like Pascal. Teachers who stand and teach. Police standing and watching, walking a beat. Some farmworkers walk row after row, bending, reaching and picking fruit and vegetables for us. All deserve to be heard, and their fears and hurts lessened.There are so many who deserve a break and a seat at the table.

And speaking of a seat at the table, this morning I read about Jesus and his twelve disciples. Their first communion awaiting them (Mark 14:22) Jesus blessed the bread, then broke it, and gave it to them. This act brought with it a sacred symbol . The broken bread served to remind them of Christ's soon-to-be broken body on the cross.

After reading this, another lesson in line came to mind. It happened more than twelve years ago. The Willis family and I stood in line to receive the eucharist at Saint John's Episcopal Church in Ross, California. Basil was a little tot, not three. As he came to the alter, lifted by his parents, Matt or Heather, he put out his chubby hands to receive the bread. Then he did the unexpected. After shoving it into his little mouth, he stretched out his hands again and said," More, please." And the Priest gave him more.

So like God, to give us seconds and second chances. And just think, Jesus entrusts and empowers us to entend that grace and mercy to others. Even while standing in line.