The Unplanned Portrait
They arrived in their paired, pressed, and planned outfits - typical parents pleading and prodding for the perfect portrait, which I can understand.
And in walked Bob.
In his Bermuda souvenir tee, thin from decades of wear. A gentle local who spends hours at this beach, hoping to have some connection with others. I’ve chatted with him many times, listening to his stories on repeat, smiling, and asking questions as if hearing for the first time.
“May I be in the picture, too?” Bob asks.
“Of course, Bob,” I reply quickly. My sensitive heart on alert.
I nod and smile at the mom, reassuring her that he’s kind and this unplanned moment will be ok. She smiles back with knowing agreement, and the family returns to position for the photo. It was a beautiful moment, a deep-down reminder that we all want to be seen, heard, and included.
On this Thanksgiving day - a day we have so much - keep your heart open to those who might hope for an invitation to your table. There’s always room for one more, even if it’s unplanned.
[photo by me. story is TRUE.]
Adorable!!
💓🙏🏼