Mixed Signals

The Oviedo Post Office put a nice park bench on the sidewalk outside the windows with a large potted plant at each end of the bench. It looks very inviting. But I noticed on Thursday that they had added a sign, affixed firmly to the top of the bench: No Loitering. How crazy is that!! It's like they are saying the bench is only to look at -- do not dare sit on it and relax a while.

Isn't that a sad commentary on our society today! Our lives are too filled with busy-ness and stress to relax and enjoy the moments. Post Office patrons might enjoy watching the chickens meander in front of Popeye's Chicken or take refuge from a quick summer shower or maybe even sit to read a letter from a friend...if anyone even sends snail mail letters any more.

But alas, they must hurry past the bench to drive on to their next destination, and the cost and thought put into the bench are completely diminished by the inhospitable words.

May my words and actions be full of grace and blessing. Help me not to put out a "no loitering" message to those who need a few moments of rest and comfort from me.