Today I fell in love again. I took a city bus home from downtown and the driver, who bore a startling resemblance to Lou Rawls, smiled and said, "How are YOU today?" as I walked up the steps. He had the kind of smile that would have made him millions in Hollywood. I noticed that he greeted everyone and had something pleasant to say to each passenger as they boarded.
Most people responded in kind. A few ignored him or even scowled that he had the nerve to interrupt their bad humor.
He answered endless questions for tourists as if his life depended on it.
I told him, "You're amazing. You welcome everyone to your bus and try to brighten their day. I don't know how you do it."
He replied, "There are assholes on every bus. I don't want to be one of them."
I touched his arm lightly. "If everyone was more like you, this would be a better world," I said as I got ready to exit.
"Thank you," he said.
"Thank YOU."
We smiled and wished each other a wonderful evening, weekend, and rest of our lives. When I got off, he honked and waved at me. He was smiling from ear to ear.
I think I met the spirit of God today. I was worrying about things I can't control, but this man's glowing warmth and concern for others made me realize that sometimes the kindness of strangers can absolutely be depended upon.
