About 4 years ago, I was having a really hard time adjusting. Being a stay-at-home homeschooling mom and having a new baby after multiple miscarriages was not an easy season for me. I found myself seeking an escape.
Starbucks became my refuge when my husband got home from work. The smell of coffee and the cozy atmosphere helped me relax and inspired me to write.
One day, as I sat there trying to focus on work, I was lost in my thoughts and the noise in my head. That's when Steve, a kind stranger, appeared, leaned in and mouthed some words, prompting me to take out my earbuds.
He asked if he could sit with me, and I gladly made space for him. As we introduced ourselves, I couldn't help but notice the joy-filled, warm exchanges he had with almost everyone who entered. They all seemed to feel seen and cared for by Steve.
Our conversation began, but it was frequently interrupted by people greeting him with genuine affection. Despite the interruptions, Steve's wisdom and genuine words touched me deeply.
He intuitively addressed my unspoken burdens and concerns. He spoke to the struggles I was facing as a new mom, a homeschooling parent, and a woman trying to keep room for herself within it all.
The coffee shop traffic slowed down, and we continued talking. Steve complimented my smile and encouraged me not to ever let it fade away. He shared some life lessons and advice that I didn't know I needed yet. As we said our "goodbyes and nice to meet yous" he told me that I sharpened his pencil that day.
That encounter with Steve was like a nurturing hug from a father, a message from heaven and the heart of God. I left feeling changed, inspired, and hopeful. It was as if God had orchestrated this appointed meeting to bring me the encouragement and wisdom I needed at that moment in my life. I even let out a huge exhale in the car and cried. I had no idea how much I needed that encounter.
A week later, I returned to Starbucks with excitement, hoping to see Steve again. But to my shock and sadness, the atmosphere was heavy with sorrow. I learned that Steve had passed away. He had been sick, something I would never have guessed from our meeting.
My heart sank. I was grateful for that one encounter, but one thing I regret is not taking the opportunity Steve offered to invite my husband and I over for dinner with his family. He wanted to pour into us "young married people" over a shared meal. I was sad I missed that chance to have my husband meet him. I wished I had more time with Steve. Yet, in that brief moment, he had left a lasting impact on my life.
I felt as if I lost something I didn't quite get to have yet. Losing Steve made me think about my own interactions with others. Do I leave people feeling loved, seen, and heard? Do I impart wisdom and share my gifts with them in a way that they'll remember forever?
So, I want to challenge myself and all of you to do a personal self-assessment. What do people experience when we walk into a room? What do they take away from our encounters with them? Let's relentlessly release who God created us to be, and let the Holy Spirit guide all our interactions.
Thank you, Steve, for sharpening MY pencil and inspiring me. Your impact will never be forgotten.
With honor and love, Qiana Nicole Wilson
