I went to school today by walking from downtown (I live in Chicago), and on the way I walked through the "Greek Town" neighborhood. It was about 10:30 or so in the morning, and as I walked, I noticed a penny on the ground. As is my habit, I pocketed it (I've learned this practice as a good way to save up money....I collect all the coins I find and save all the change I get from purchases, and after about a year, I can exchange it for a lot of money, usually $80 or so).
A gruff man was standing outside one of the Greek Town restaurants, smoking a cigarette, probably on a work break. He saw me pick up the penny and said, "Good luck, buddy!"
I'm not sure why, but that incident brightened my day!
2 comments:
That reminds me of an incident recounted in one of James Herriot's books. As a penniless young veterinarian, he was working as the track doctor at the horse races, and found himself in the beer tent near a bookie with piles of coin. The bookie noticed the shabby young man, grinned, and without a word flipped him a sizable coin, then went back to his counting. That brightened the vet's day considerably, too.
By the way, I hope the work on your dissertation is going well.
I didn't realize you lived in Chicago. I'll be there for a conference April 23-24. If you're interested in breaking your anonymity, I'd be happy to have lunch with you.
Mr. Hanley,
I like the anecdote from Herriot. I should probably read one of his books. I heard a lot from him as an undergrad (my school--Colorado State University--had a lot of people hoping to go on to veterinary school).
Thanks so much for the offer, but unfortunately I won't be available that weekend.
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