“Is there anything I can help you with today?”
I was recently asked this question outside a bank.
At first, I didn’t realize he was speaking to me, then I saw him standing to the right of the entrance, a respectful distance from bank clients entering and exiting.
As I opened the door, I said, “no, but thank you for asking.” Inside I forgot about him, did my banking, and left. On the way out, he was still there and he didn’t repeat his question. I felt relieved.
As I made my way to the car, I passed a woman on her way into the bank. I overheard the familiar question, “Is there anything I can help you with today?” The woman responded, “No, but I have something for you.”
She turned and headed back to her car. I almost stopped, turned around, and waited.
She had piqued my curiosity. What did she have? Food? Money? Pamphlets?
A number of someone or a business that needed his help today? I continued my walk to the car, got in, and checked over my right shoulder.
What was she getting? I watched her open the back door, grab something, shut the door and head back towards him.
I couldn’t see what it was so I adjusted my rearview mirror. She was carrying a new pair of men’s work gloves.
The sight of gloves was unexpected. I didn’t stay to watch his acceptance or reaction.
I started the car and I drove away. When I reached the four-way stop, I found myself reflecting on what I had witnessed. I realized what she had done.
She had gone beyond his question. She had gone straight to the heart of it.
She didn’t have work for him, but she had something to help his possibility of work. And isn’t that what his question asks for “possibility?”
I didn’t have work for him and I don’t know who she was but they taught me to prepare for possibilities right here in Vernon.
Sandra Lynn Lynxleg
Vernon
