Difference

These past few days, I've been doing some things differently.
Well for starters, I spent all day Saturday at Borders, studying for my Euro, Calc, and Physics test. I like this one big square table they have but I always feel awkward sitting there alone. I feel like I should take one of the small tables since I'm sitting by myself anyway.

So, as usual, I walked into Borders at 10 am, settled in on my favorite table, asked Jared for my small Tazo Calm tea, and went about my business for a good five hours. When it was about 30 minutes before my scheduled pick-up time, I let my eyes wander from my calculus homework to the people sitting around me. I caught sight of a high school girl who was carrying an enormous Juicy tote that seemed weigh as much as her. She was looking for a seat, but with the early afternoon being the busiest time at the cafe, she was inevitably disappointed. After a few minutes, she gave up, turned around, and trudged to the back of the book store - probably to find a small couch or stool to sit on.

After a few seconds, I got up, ran after her, tapped her on the shoulder, and asked her if she would like to sit with me since I was leaving soon anyway. She was really happy and thanked me for offering. I know it's nothing close to being a good semaritan, but hey, this small good deed on my part made my day.


To top off my good day with a cherry, I wanted to make Ali e Olio pasta for dinner, so I asked my mom if we could stop by at Rite Aid to buy some light virgin olive oil. It was really cold out - enough to make me shudder even with my coat on.

As I made my way to the entrance, I saw a homeless man that I recognized since I see him often in the streets. I could tell it was him because this man always wears shorts - and by shorts, I mean the horrendously short ones that basketball teams in the 50's would wear. Yes, the ones that cover about half the thigh. But I digress...
I saw him jogging in place, trying to keep himself warm. It was uncomfortable looking at him and his exposed legs, not because of the usual reason (short shorts), but because his legs were pale blue from the cold.
Back at home, I made my mom some pasta and asked her if we could take some to him. I live right next to RiteAid, so I could get it to him when it was still piping hot. So, I made another serving of my amazing 5 star Ali e Olio, got a bottle of water, and grabbed a pink wool blanket that we only use for camping trips. When I got there, he was lying down on some news papers and a jacket facing the wall. We tapped him on the shoulder and asked him if he would like some pasta and a blanket. He had such a surprised look on his face when he turned around...as if this was the first time someone had talked to him in years. He accepted and thanked me.

I don't know if I can help the people in Haiti or Chile, but I know that even though it's small, I can start by helping those around me. When he thanked me, I saw for the first time how clear and pure his eyes were. Those eyes made me feel like I got more out of this than he did.

"You must be the difference you wish to see in the world."