What Goes Around

Several years ago, I took my 4 year old son to Sonic to get a milkshake.  We had the windows down and were just chatting away about nothing when my son commented loudly, "He is fat!"  I asked quietly, "Who are you talking about son?" My next comment was going to be a gentle lesson on respect.  He replied, "The shaker-bringer is fat!"  I looked out the window and realized that the shaker-bringer, who was indeed a large fellow, had heard the entire interchange.

I profusely apologized and was happy that he was gracious enough to give us our shakes without "spilling" them in my car.  When I turned to gave my son his milkshake, I said something about manners but he didn't hear me because he just wanted that shake!

We had barely pulled out of the parking lot when I heard a parents most dreaded phrase - "Uhhh ooohhhh."  I whipped my head around to see that in his excitement, my son had stuck both his thumbs through the bottom of the styrofoam cup.  So the only thing between that milkshake and my car were two tiny thumbs.

I immediately went back to Sonic and pulled quickly into a space.  I pushed the red "panic" button and asked for an emergency cup replacement. They sent their most trusty employee to my car with dispatch and guess who it was... that's right - the Shaker Bringer!  He was very understanding and kind.  We successfully made the shake transfer without making a mess.

This time I profusely thanked him.  And as we left Sonic that day, my son, with his double reinforced milkshake in his little hands, said in essence, "That shaker-bringer is nice."  I realized instantly that no further lecture about seeing the good in others was necessary.  And that is your wellness moment!