MEET ROB AND DARREN

I had more admin work to do on Mum’s affairs, so had to pop into town to go to the Bank.  Mr. HCB went to the library, fully expecting me to have finished my business at the Bank, but things didn’t work out quite as we had planned because there was an issue with their electricity supply - not easy to cope with on a very busy Saturday morning.  However, the lady we saw was very good and said that she would ensure that things were sorted out for us early next week, which I told her was fine.

We then decided to go to Boswell’s for coffee, as I had been sent some vouchers by a friend, and off we went.  On our way, we saw some men emptying the litter bins and cleaning them, so I decided to take a photograph - this would really please my older son, Martyn, as it has been a long-standing joke in our family that if there is a litter bin around, I will take a photograph of it!

Today, however, I wasn’t taking a photograph of just the litter bin, but the person clearing it, Rob, as I found out his name was later - in the yellow fluorescent jacket.  We stopped to chat to him and I said they were doing a wonderful job - at which he looked very surprised, so I told him I would like to give him something.  I got my purse out and he said “We’re not allowed to accept money” to which I said, it’s not money, just something to bless you - and then I gave him one of my little hearts.  He smiled and thanked me and then I realised that Mr. HCB had walked to the other side of the pavement and was speaking to another man, in the orange fluorescent jacket, and who we later found out was called Darren, who then walked over towards Rob and me.  I delved into my purse again and found another heart for him, which made him smile.  I then asked if I could take a photograph and they were happy to stand and pose for me - Blip done!

They both said they appreciated our comments as people don’t generally tell them they are doing a good job - so it was great to be able to show some kindness to these two lovely Council workmen and it didn’t take much on our part.  I need to replenish my hearts though, as I am fast running out!

When I give the hearts to people, I usually put them into the palm of their hand, close their fingers over the heart and say “That’s to bless you” and leave them to open their hand to see what I have given them. Of itself, the little hearts are nothing, just a piece of wood, on which I write the word "love", or "peace", "hope" or "joy" but I like to think it is spreading some love in this troubled world  so this quote seemed appropriate for today.

“Don’t use bad language. 
     Say only what is good and helpful 
          to those you are talking to, 
               and what will give them a blessing.”
Ephesians 4:29 : The Living Bible


P.S.  Apologies for not commenting yesterday - I was very tired after doing more clearing out over at Mum's flat.