Toaster joy

Sometimes it’s the small things that touch your heart. A humble toaster, perhaps.

National Park Service accommodations are quite adequate, but kitchen provisions famously bare. My two housemates are moving out imminently as their seasons have ended, taking all their pots and pans and dishes and utensils with them. I, expecting to be finished by now also, didn’t bring kitchen stuff with me. Oh, I have my camping box; that’ll do for a couple of weeks before my furlough. But English muffins need to be toasted, you know?

Neighbor Jackie departs today, and yesterday was giving away all her extra food. Without knowing of my lack, she handed me her toaster and said, “It’s yours. Use it well.” That stoic corner of my heart that had resigned itself to cold pale English muffins breathed a sigh of relief, and its tough edges softened. What a sweet, simple act.

I will surely pay it forward when it’s my turn to leave.

Leave a comment: What small item, or act of kindness, made an impact when it was bestowed on you?