A Story and thought shared by Martin Sykes

Beautiful day isn’t it?

a story by Barbara Johnson

The day started out rotten. I overslept and was late for work.

Everything that happened at the office contributed to by nervous frenzy.

By the time I reached the bus stop for my homeward trip, my stomach was one big knot.

As usual, the bus was late and jammed. I had to stand in the aisle.

As the lurching vehicle pulled me in all directions, my gloom deepened.

Then I heard a deep voice from up front, boom, “Beautiful day, isn't it?”

Because of the crowd, I couldn't see the man, but I could hear him as he continued to comment on the spring scenery, calling attention to each approaching landmark. This church. That park. This cemetery, That fire station.

Soon, all the passengers were gazing out of the windows.

The man's enthusiasm was so contagious, I found myself smiling for the first time that day.

We reached my stop.

Manoeuvring towards the door, I got a look at our “guide”.

A plump figure with a black beard, wearing dark glasses and carrying a thin white cane.

Words that come to mind are “count your blessings”, and” always look on the bright side of life”

Philippians 4:8 New International Version (NIV)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

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