So, they laughed and ordered and thanked me again. And as I walked out of the shop to the car, all five were sitting at a table enjoying their coffee, and once again, they thanked me.
Their masks were down, you know, ‘cause they were drinking, and I could see their faces. And in their faces, I saw my son. And my husband. And my brother. And my dad. I saw men who must see and deal with a lot of crap, still smiling. I’m not sure how they do it, but they do.
“Again, ma’am. Thank you so much. We really appreciate it.”
“Oh no,” I said. “I appreciate YOU.”
And I always will.