The Brown Lantern

On Saturday night, Craig and I went out to a dinner and movie. We were in the mood for some nachos and a burger so we headed to a local pub called the Brown Lantern. We had never been there before but we discovered that they have absolutely excellent food! They have the best crab chowder in the world! The food wasn't the most remarkable part about our experience at the Brown Lantern however. As we were seated at our table, I noticed an elderly lady at the table next to us. She was sitting all alone eating dinner. I'm sure everyone has seen an elderly person eating alone and a twinge of sadness goes through you. Why? Is it because we assume this person is inevitably lonely? Is it because we assume that they would rather be eating with someone else, yet they have no one to eat with? I’m not sure, but I am sure we have all seen this at a restaurant at one time or another. There was something about this woman…the look on her face as she watched those around her, the smile on her face as she listened in on all the nearby conversations, the smile that she gave every passing customer, waitress, and employee. I couldn’t explain it, but I couldn’t stop thinking about her and wishing (praying) that she wasn’t a lonely woman. It was at that moment when the scene took an unexpected turn. A young woman walked up to her, talked to her, and gave her a big hug. After the young woman left, another couple came by and sat and talked with her. After that couple left, a lady from the table next to us went over to her, introduced herself, and then proceeded to invite her over to her table of friends. The elderly woman had this smile on her face that you would have to see to feel. The table welcomed her, shook her hand and invited her into their conversation. I have to say, I was moved…I mean I was really moved. Craig and I were both in awe. We couldn't believe what we were seeing. I left with a lump in my throat.

Once we got back in the car I told Craig, "I think we saw God tonight.” He shows up in the most humble of places...including a little pub in little Anacortes, WA. Now I know what he looks like. Incredible.