Time to Renew

I hadn’t been to Costco in a very long time. In fact, my membership expired two years ago. This past week, however, I went twice.

The first time was to walk through the store to see if I wanted to renew my membership. It was Friday evening, close to closing and not very crowded.

I happened to see someone I hadn’t seen in years. It was so good to see her, and it lifted my spirit to do so.

While there, I also noticed a big-ticket item I planned to buy was on sale. The savings on this one item alone would make renewing my membership worthwhile.

I decided to renew it that evening and to come back later for the item.

I ended up going back the next day. It was Saturday.

I knew it would be a busy day. As I drove that way, I told myself that I only needed one item and that I was not in a rush.

When I pulled into the parking lot, it was packed. There was a congestion of cars, people and carts going every which way. And yet, there was a calmness to it all.

People seemed relaxed, not at all aggressive and everyone seemed to be going with the flow.

I imagined how this could be stressful for someone else. It wasn’t for me.

Maybe it had to do with how I approached it.

Or, maybe it’s a benefit that comes with being a member.

Once inside, there were a lot more people, really long lines and very full carts. Yet, people seemed to have a clear direction and specific purpose.

As I proceeded to get the item I came to purchase, a gentleman suddenly appeared to help me. When I turned to thank him, he was gone. Standing there instead was a friendly store clerk who kindly greeted me and talked to me about the item.

Something about this experience was very refreshing.

Amid this crowded place, there was a certain kind of peace that is hard to explain. I was happy to be a part of it.

Somehow renewing my membership, also renewed my faith in people and in the One who makes all this possible.

Wow . . .

“Come, renew the face of our earth.”

Here’s to more WOW Moments!

Lucy