Beautiful young people are accidents of nature,
But beautiful old people are works of art.

~Eleanor Roosevelt

I patiently waited at the Secretary of State to purchase new plates for another Hoe Mobile. After all, the gardening season is right around the corner! Sitting still is NOT my favorite thing to do, even in winter. However, “down time” has purpose and that rang true today.

Bored stiff, out of the corner of my eye, I noticed an adorable older gentleman hunched over the counter looking very forlorn. He resembled my dad who passed away in 2007 – hearing aid, cane, World War II cap, and all! Immediately the flash backs crepted in and so did the lump in my throat.

I vividly recalled escorting my father to the Secretary of State for the last time. His concern and fear that his license may not be renewed plagued him like his ailing disease. I am quite sure he could not bear the thought of losing his independence and never driving again. It broke my heart then and again today. And now, an unfamiliar, unpretentious little old man wore that same look on his face.

The emotions began erupting like a volcano and I fought back the tears. So silly I thought to myself, I am sitting in the Secretary of State office that is jam-packed with people. Please, please, please pass the tests I quietly chanted to myself, as if it might help. Just give him one more chance.

On this very gloomy December day, my sunglasses concealed the sentiment but his toothless smile revealed victory! Thank you little old man for reminding me how much I loved my dad and the true meaning of this very magical holiday season!

May all your gardens grow,