The title of this post, 'Opening a Door for Another' actually is an idea and or a gesture I myself was raised to do upon egress of a building that requires a door which in turn facilitates not only me but the recipients entrance or exit. The simple trick here is to hold the door open, it is very easy to accomplish and as such requiring little effort.
Now I have seen society lose this gesture of common courtesy over time but must say I have to rely on my upbringing in doing just that, opening the door for another, as it has in the past been a source of excellent conversation with complete strangers or just a simple Thank You with or from whom I have held that door. This is instant gratification on both parts that does not cost a dime nor will not leave the mind at least for the rest of that day on both, all on a simple gesture of opening and holding a door for another.
Back to Wednesday. I completed my monetary transaction with the store clerk and proceeded to the door. Now the door itself was glass and was covered with all sort of advertising so all I could see on the other side was approaching feet if one were to be on the other side of the door. Well I did see feet, well boots actually and camouflage pants. Neither of these are unusual around here in Michigan with winter snow, hunters and wannabe gangstas so I was somewhat cautious to opening that door considering the latter.
Throwing caution to the wind (lots of people around) and I did have to leave I did open that door and held it firmly for the one entering.
You might ask why I say "firmly"?
I am told that I have a rather deep and loud voice so when I believe it is appropriate to speak up I am also usually told to stop yelling. I do not yell, I speak clearly and did so at this point by saying; "Merry Christmas and Thank You for Serving"!
The gesture on my part and my apparent message and voice were not lost on this soldier, she responded in kind with; "Merry Christmas to you and THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT"!
All the people inside and outside the store could not help but hear our exchange of pleasantries and of this I am pleased.
Thank our Military every chance you get! I would say in my experience in doing so that 100% of the time a response is indeed forthcoming (not expected or required) and it is not only mind-blowing in that it swells you with pride but it also sticks with you as I am about to explain.
To my total, and I mean total utter surprise all four Marines stopped in their tracks as though on cue, stood to attention and SALUTED ME BACK!
At that very moment those four fabulous Marines made me feel like the tallest person on Earth!
Now being in an airport there were many to witness this, it did not last long mind you and no words were exchanged, drop, snap and move along but the applause from the surrounding traveler's was absolutely thunderous and it was not for me obviously. As I stated above, this event was not lost on me. That was in 1987 and I relive that very proud moment in my mind as though it just happened yesterday, everyday, it has not nor ever will leave my memory.
I am no one special but I am an American, but these Marines and the Army Soldier mentioned above already know this and this is why they serve. Together, all of us are exceptional! By saluting or thanking our Military we are metaphorically opening a door, a door to appreciation that goes both ways.
Yes, Thank our Military everyday, it will not only make their day but most assuredly yours as well!
A Very Merry Christmas to all our Military and families and a very sincere Thank You!
