Something About Mary

The year was 2006 & I had just landed in my new tropical home not knowing a single solitary soul in this overgrown metropolitan jungle called "Houston".

In those early days, I walked my children to school, because my wife needed our only working vehicle to get her to her necessary classes. It was this less than ideal situation that led to the meeting of one of our children's elementary school cross guards along our new awkward & unfamiliar morning path.

For the sake of anonymity, we'll call her "Mary". ;o)

From our first encounter (crossing), I learned very quickly that she was excellent at her work, possessing the delicate balance of precision in her traffic directing, while simultaneously connecting with each of her passing pedestrians...in a single bound!

Recognizing that we were newcomers, she made it a point to learn my children's names that first day, which is always a quick way to win over a dad like me. She even learned my son's stuffed animal's name..."Aurora". Now that's dedication you can't buy folks!

I was curious what the next day/crossing would bring. I was not disappointed. Only this time she added the role of encourager/cheerleader to her job description. I will never forget her jubilantly barking out warm wishes that second day like "Happy Tuesday everybody! Have a wonderful second day of school!" while carefully guiding that anxious/late for work Dodge Dakota out of the school premises & safely onto the street.

As the years passed our family grew to know & love Mary all the more. We talked most every week & even prayed for each other & our respective families during times of need.

Sadly, our time together has concluded as our family begins a new chapter many miles away.

The whistle you see pictured, is something she gave me on the last day of school to remember her by.

Without question, our family was beyond blessed to know Mary these past four years. She redefined her position & raised the bar exceedingly high for all future cross guards.

We all know the professional work place can be an all too often cold & cruel environment. So consider yourself highly fortunate if you come across a "Mary" in your daily routine. For I assure you, they are the exception, not the norm.