From The Storyteller
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June 10, 2019, Folks
“Does this make me look fat?” There is silence, and then I hear, “That is not a good color on you.” I immediately think, “Wise man.” This conversation is overheard in the woman’s department of JCPenney’s. Elaine is looking for a particular blouse to go with her new slacks, and my function is to give an opinion, shortly before a decision is made. Aside from overhearing the occasional conversation between other couples, my mind is free to wander. A woman walks past several displays without even a side-ward glance. She suddenly stops, and picks up a jacket. The look on her face is serious as she applies her test question, (possibly) “Will this work for me?” The answer is obviously “no” as she puts it back and walks away. I do a 360 scan of the store around me, and I’m suddenly aware of literally millions of possible clothing combinations. I’m looking at loud colors, soft colors, tight fitting jeans, baggy pants with leg pockets, dresses, suits, and this is just in the women’s department. The store is filled with people of all different colors, shapes, and sizes, and they’re all hunting for that “right” combination of color and style. Yes, the old saying “Different strokes for different folks” really is true. There are 328 million, unique people living in America, and stores like Penney’s, Wal-Mart, and Dillard’s stay in business by helping all these different folks find the exact combination they’re looking for. This is when I start smiling. I remember our world population is roughly 7 billion, and every day each of them is making choices based on what they think is “right” for them. I’m smiling because I realize that only a God who loves diversity could dream up this world we live in. Moral: Shopping at Penney’s can be an eye opener. |