I was traveling today, and the most marvelous thing happened—a small gesture, but the small things in life are the best.

Let’s back up a moment. I was driving along this morning down the interstate. It was a fantastic morning. The traffic was light, almost non-existent even. The sky was making its way from night to day. Dawn, and sunrise, would be here in a moment. The only problem I had, which was significant, was that my travel coffee cup was empty.

Luckily, it was easily solved.

I pulled off at a service plaza—I like these because they are quick and easy. In I went and instantly found the coffee. I used my own mug, of course. I headed to the front to pay to be on my way. I didn’t want to miss the sunrise.

The cashier, wonderfully pleasant, looked at me and asked, “refill only?” I said, “yup!” in a cheery voice as I pulled out my credit card.

She looked at me, said “Have a great morning,” and waved me away. I just stopped and looked at her… I couldn’t believe my luck! I said thank you, more than once, and bounded out the door.

Back in the car, I continued down the still-empty interstate and enjoyed the sun as it broke the horizon. It was a glorious sunrise and made even more so by the complimentary coffee.

It was a small gesture for her, but it meant a ton to me. Her kindness snowballed into my joy and made my already wonderful morning incredible.

Thank you. Thank you so very much