Tommy
My neighbor Tommy just got back from Vegas. He takes a Vegas trip about six times a year. Whenever he returns, he always has stories to share. He often retells the same stories, but I don’t mind. He’s a nice man, and I appreciate and enjoy the interaction. Oftentimes when I’m outside tending to the potted plants, he’ll come sit in the rattan chair outside my door and we’ll talk story for a while.
Yesterday when I saw that he had returned, I welcomed him home. He smiled and slowly walked over. His walk has slowed in recent years because of age and an arthritic knee. As I asked how his trip was, he pulled an envelope from his pocket and gave it to me. It was money. There’s kind of a tradition in the islands that when you win big it’s good luck to give some to family. He didn’t give me a lot of money, but that’s besides the point. His thoughtful gesture blew me away.
April 27th, 2005 at 5:11 am
Whoa…. there’s that good karma coming back atcha! What a purely unselfish sentiment from a very sweet looking spirit. I’m sure it made him just as happy to share it with you. xoxo
April 27th, 2005 at 5:27 am
That is so generous of Tommy, but from what I know about you, that doesn’t surprise me that he shared it with you and considers you family. Very touching indeed! He looks like such a sweet man too.
*HUGS*
April 27th, 2005 at 6:55 am
Family, only in Hawaii !!! Love
April 27th, 2005 at 7:50 am
That was a thoughtful gesture from Tommy. And the significance makes it even more meaningful.
April 27th, 2005 at 3:39 pm
how very sweet…
April 27th, 2005 at 6:01 pm
Wow, with traditions like that I better pack my suitcase and head to Hawaii! That would never happen here, people barely know their neighbors anymore. Have a good weekend Kane.
April 28th, 2005 at 2:59 am
Some traditions should be kept in honor
Nothing better than to share with the people you love…
April 28th, 2005 at 11:19 am
thank you for the reminder, kane! i remembered it all day but never had the time to actually go… heh.:) i’ll go tomorrow.
hope you’re having a good day! and that’s a nice story about your neighbor. does he live alone?
April 29th, 2005 at 5:02 am
I actually believe in that superstition. I think that it’s good karma to spread the wealth. So whenever I win big in Vegas or anywhere else, I always take my buddies for a BIG dinner…
April 29th, 2005 at 7:08 am
Jo Anne, he does live alone.
As always, thanks to everyone for sharing your thoughts!