"The First E-Mail That I Always Go To"
"My Eyes Are Still in Tears, I Don't Show my Emotions"
Good Morning Friends, As most of you know, We have a small Kettle Corn business. We have a lot of shows lined up this winter in southern Florida. This little endeavor is not being done for the love of big money. It is a lot of hard work, and has all of the pitfalls and challenges of any business. We have now done four events and our little company has proved to us to be very rewarding, not in a monetary sense, but in ways that money can't buy.
This weekend we were doing a show in Lake City Florida. Most people call them events, but we call them shows. Why? Because we entertain. We interact with the audience, we create a set, and we really do put on a show. Quite frankly this is right up my alley, and I feel very comfortable in this element. In other words I get to act, to say, and to be, whatever the scene requires without fear of reprimand for being crazy. As D. told my son, "Bring on the Show Pony, and let him sell." Gotta love it.
Something happened this weekend that kinda brought everything full circle
The atmosphere was very festive. Kids and parents alike were dressed in costumes of all descriptions. My favorite was Mr. Pumpkin Head, and his wife Wonder Woman. Anyone who will put a REAL pumpkin on his head and walk around for hours in 85 degree heat, has my vote. When they stopped by our booth to buy a bag of Kettle Corn she was a classic. She looked at Donna and said, " I could have married Brad Pitt, but look what I got. Mr. Stupid Pumpkin Head!" Mr. Pumpkin Head didn't say a word, just bobbed his stupid Pumpkin Head up and down. The guy had my respect.
Later on I noticed in the crowd a young lady, and who I assumed was her sister, walking through the event. The one girl was afflicted with Downs Syndrome. I latter found out the afflicted girls name was Chris. It seemed obvious that she was in utter amazement over the costumes, the band, and the festive atmosphere. She too, loved Mr. Pumpkin Head, and I could see her pointing and laughing at his outfit. It was obvious that she was having a great day. What was also obvious was that her sister was not. I can only imagine how hard it is to care for the special needs of Chris. My hat is off to her.
Chris and her sister eventually stopped by "Kernel B's" to buy a bag of Kettle Corn. D. had gone to lunch and left me to watch the stand. I am sorry she was not there.
The sister asked me how much for a bag. I told her, and she proceeded to dig into her purse for her money. When she paid, I gave her a bag and a smile, and told her thanks. It was at this point something awesome happened.
Chris grabbed for the bag and was immediately rebuked by her Sister. I could see the look of disappointment on her face. I motioned for her to come to me. I gave her a bag of Corn for herself. As she clutched the bag a look came over her face. I will never forget that look. Never!
She proceeded to put the bag down and grabbed my hand.
She looked me in the eye and in" SIGN", while mouthing the words said, " I LOVE YOU."
All I can say is that the Show Pony cried, and is crying as he is writing this now.
I will simply let you be the judge of what I learned on Saturday.
A simple hint,"It aint about the money."
B.
