I’m Not The Manager
“Good afternoon, gentlemen,” the well-dressed man towering over our table asked. “How is your food?”
“Delicious,” I replied with a mouth full of burrito. My commander echoed my sentiments. “However, you didn’t have any Big Red soda and this is a TexMex restaurant, I joked, thinking thinking I was talking to the restaurant manager.
“Oh, I’m not the manager. I just wanted to thank you for your service. Lunch is on me today.”
After my futile attempts to explain that I appreciate the sentiment but he didn’t have to pay for my food, he thanked us again and was on his way. He didn’t leave his name, didn’t leave any indication of who he was. Suddenly, he dissappeared from the restaurant. My commander and I sat there staring at each other for a few moments.
I was flabbergasted. Not so much because someone appreciated the contribution of our Soldiers and military, but because someone in Maryland appreciated our service. I became instantly humbled and a little emotional. A complete stranger had just paid for my lunch - and I was having a big lunch since I went without breakfast. He didn’t want anything in return except to know that the meal he paid for was at least enjoyable to us. I didn’t feel worthy of his kindness, but appreciated it. I thought to myself, “I wish all my Soldiers could feel what I feel right this moment.”
I’m truly grateful for the wonderful, patriotic Americans who go out of their way to support our troops. If every Soldier could share the feelings I had today and witness the true heart of this great nation, EVERY Soldier would understand their worth and be personally motivated to stay longer in the service of a grateful nation.
I don’t know this gentleman’s name or if he even reads or will read this blog, but I want to publicly thank Mr. John Doe for his selfless act of kindness to my commander and me as we ate lunch at Don Pablos TexMex Restaurant in Laurel, Maryland today. You truly made my day, sir. We also “paid it forward” and left our waitress a big tip!
