A Fortuitous Misunderstanding (01/23/2025)

We met at the gas station. I was coming out as he was coming in. He held the door open for me and we exchanged smiles. He reemerged as I was finishing up loading my purchases. The weather was horrible, and the roads were treacherous because of the snow and temps. “Are you from here?” I asked him, wondering if he had to travel far to get home in those conditions. He smiled and began to tell me his story. I’m grateful for that fortuitous misunderstanding.

He was originally from Chicago. His parents were originally from rural Oklahoma and rural Arkansas. He guessed he inherited a love for country living, so when he was able to, he left the big city of Chicago and found a place outside of Lake Mills with a little land, some open space, and few neighbors. He’s trying to fix his place up. He wants to add a second bathroom. And he’d like to sell his place, buy a larger tract of land and build a new home.

I listened to him, interrupting occasionally with a clarifying question. We spoke for around 10 minutes as he pumped his gas. I shared with him that I lived for a while near Chicago, and I couldn’t wait to get away from it because I hated the traffic. He agreed on that point but said there were times when he misses the offerings of Chicago like great restaurants.

As he was finishing up his gas purchase and replacing the nozzle, I realized it was time to end. “It has been a pleasure getting to know you, Clyde.” He beamed and said, “Thanks, Kate. I hope to see you again.” And I knew he meant it.

It was only ten minutes, but for those ten minutes, I got to share in the journey of another. I do hope to see him again as he’s out and about – maybe another gas station encounter.

That night, I added him to my prayer list. I’m praying that his dream of building a home can be realized and that he flourishes here in rural Wisconsin. And I thanked the LORD for the nudge to speak to him, to acknowledge his presence, and for the fortuitous misunderstanding that led to such a rewarding exchange.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.