I had planned on starting today with a bang. I had my to-do list ready and was going to get some shit done! But first, I wanted a little Starbucks to power my morning.
I had a few minutes to spare, so instead of ordering via the app. I actually walked in the store and ordered. I also passed a woman holding clothing and deodorant as I went to the check out counter. She looked embarrassed that I had caught her holding those things, but I didn’t think anything of it.
I placed my order for a $6 drink and started walking out to my car. That was when I passed her again and saw that she had a bunch of bags around her and a dog.
Then it hit me, as I was sucking down my $6 drink that she was homeless. I made it to my car and knew that I couldn’t leave without helping her.
So I left my drink in the car and marched back into Starbucks. I was trying to figure out what to order her. Did she have allergies? Did she like yogurt? I ended up settling for a gift card. I wanted to let her have some choices that made her happy today.
I walked up to the barista and told her what I wanted to do. She was lovely and was willing to give the lady the gift card after I left. I told her I didn’t want her to feel embarrassed.
I made it to my car before I started crying my eyes out. Here I was thinking that I needed more in my life, more money, more business, more exposure. When in reality I needed to just be grateful.
I hung out in the parking lot for a few minutes crying and trying to compose myself. Which was perfect because I was able to see the lady come back out of Starbucks with this HUGE smile on her face. Holding the gift card I bought her.
She will never know it was me. I might never see her again. But I would do it again for her and her dog in a heartbeat.
