Amidst all the partying and celebration that's oh-so-New-Year's, one thing today really sticks out. Today I was reminded yet again of the values of random positive reinforcement. AKA habits. Why do we go to the same gas station? Why do we go to the same barber? Wear similar pants with shirts? Wipe our butts the same way?
Some guys just set off MORE fireworks. As if the ones off of the Skytower weren't enough. And yet I think of all the people down there. Living not-so-different lives.
Anyway, back to the story. I pulled into this gas station today - BP - on Manukau Road, just after the Royal Oak Roundabout. (total nonsense to those in the US) I walk in to pay, and see this freezer. Full of ice cream bars, popsicles, etc. I have just learned the pleasure of Calippo popsicles. Really good. Coconut and Mandarin Orange. Yum. Kiwi and strawberry. So, I go back to the car, pick up my change. I don't have enough. A Calippo is 1.80. I have .75. Bummer. I go to pay the gas. The beefy Islander asks me how I'm doing, if I'm partying tonight. I mention the party on Aotea Sqare (near the Skytower). But...I'm going. I'm too tired. (true, but also it's sabbath) He nods assent. I ask him what ice cream/popsicle I can get for .75. Turns out the one they have under .75 is all gone. So in a random gesture of kindess, he just gives me this little cup of ice cream. I pay happily for the gas.
And as I'm walking out - I think "this guy is awesome. He's make an awesome Christian." You don't forget things like that. A little cup of ice cream. Probably didn't cost much. But he gave it to me. Just reached down, pulled one up and gave it to me. Shook my hand, "Happy New Year." That really meant a lot.
That kind of thing should happen everyday.
Oh yes. Happy New Year everyone!
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