St. Joseph of the Lakes

I had lunch with a friend in a restaurant in St. Cloud this past week. Attached to a menu was a printed note asking customers to be patient and kind in these difficult times. The note explained that the restaurant was having difficulty in hiring people as well as getting its produce from its suppliers. It pointed out that it was not the wait staff’s “fault” that the customer might have to wait longer than expected for their food, so “please be patient as well as kind to our employees”.

We have arrived at a time in our society where many are becoming like “spoiled children” expecting that the world should revolve around them. Sometimes they will justify their rudeness by saying they are “paying good money” for the service and they have a right to expect better. Others no longer even seek to justify their bad behavior, they just act as if everything is due them. As we are emerging from our COVID isolation I have been surprised by this development. I would have assumed that in our isolation we would have become more sensitive to others, yet it seems to be just the opposite, in our isolation we seem to have forgotten how grateful we should be for what others do for us.

I was not surprised by the note in the menu, but I was saddened. I pray that we as followers of Christ may set a contrary example in the midst of this growing disorder. I pray that we might be considered “saps or stupid” for being kind to others, especially those who are serving us. This time is a shining opportunity to give witness to the difference living out Christianity makes in our lives.

In 2015 Country singer Tim McGraw released one of my favorite songs: “Always Stay Humble and Kind”. I especially like the last verse and refrain:

Hold the door, say "please", say "thank you"
Don't steal, don't cheat, and don't lie
I know you got mountains to climb
But always stay humble and kind
When those dreams you're dreamin' come to you
When the work you put in is realized
Let yourself feel the pride
But always stay humble and kind

Don't take for granted the love this life gives you
When you get where you're going don't forget turn back around
And help the next one in line
Always stay humble and kind

-Tim McGraw