The rodeo and Sutton County Days are the happiest days here in my town. I personally had a grand time. I’m going to tell you about my favorite part…. Saddle up!!!
As my cousins and I were walking around on Friday evening, I noticed something that caught my eye– a simple moment that I’ll never forget. It was like an angel had came down from Heaven and wiped away all the negativity for a long while. A little old man gave away free toys to two small children that looked like they were around 3 years old. The stuffed animals were almost as big as they were. I can’t say I’ve ever seen happier children. They probably thought it was Christmas! I immediately knew this man was special.
After the parade on Saturday (yesterday), I saw the man again whenever my cousin Laci wanted to play the game at his booth “Big Choice.” (A game where you shoot bottles and see which prize you will redeem. Also, it’s “shoot until you win” so clearly this man is a giving person). When we walked up to him the first thing I saw was his hat which read “Vietnam Veteran.” I’m certain there were alarms going off in my head telling me to thank him for his service so of course, I did.
This veteran by the name of Harley Maple, was in a wheelchair. He started to talk to me but I could barely hear him over the blaring music that was playing not too far away. What I did hear took me by surprise and really made me cherish my life a tremendous amount more. Harley looked me in the eyes and told me that he was dying. My heart dropped. He wasn’t sad.. more determined than anything. His spirit rose. With a raised fist and a cheerful face he said, “if I make it to next month, I’m going to celebrate in Las Vegas.” I couldn’t help but smile. I could tell this man has lived a life worth living even if I had only talked to him for a good few minutes. [These are the kind of people we should be surrounded by.]
After meeting him, my cousin and I went into care mode. We offered to give him anything he asked for which ended up being a cheeseburger, water and helping hands. Throughout the constant check ups, we chatted and laughed. I didn’t ask about the time he served our country because you just can’t jump into that but he talked about it anyways. The one story I heard loud and clear was about a dedicated young man he knew from Junction who passed away 3 days into his deployment. I stood there with open ears. It was like story time and I had the privilege of listening. He was a friendly man with some worthwhile memories.
Harley ended up giving us free toys, too. We didn’t want to take them but he insisted that we did. I’m thankful to have met Mr. Maple because he encouraged me to never lose hope. I would’ve never known that a stranger could be so full of life and love. If you will, please pray for him. I don’t know where he’s headed but I do hope that he makes it longer than his goal of one month.
TODAYS CHALLENGE:
Thank a veteran when you see one. If it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t be here today. I can assure you that it’ll make them feel good but it’ll make you feel better.
Jessica Paredes 