At lunch today I saw a table with six sergeants seated around it. I approached and said I needed a favor that I was sure at least one of them could do for me. One politely asked what it was while all six had that look on their face of is this guy going to ask for money. I anticipated and expected that initial response. I told them I wanted to thank them for their service and the favor was to please share it with the rest of their unit when they returned to base.
At that the countenances changed completely and all six had a big smile. I shook hands with them and said "Saved the best for last." as I approached the last man. One of his buddies replied "We tell him that all the time too." and I told them I really thought they were all the best for doing what they do. At that our 90 second conversation was over and I waited to be seated. A few minutes later they got up to leave and each one either nodded or waved as they left, again with a smile on their faces.
In spite of the skepticism of some, it seemed genuinely appreciated and to have positively impacted their day. I plan to continue doing so, at least until I find valid reason not to. Results to date suggest that may never happen.
At that the countenances changed completely and all six had a big smile. I shook hands with them and said "Saved the best for last." as I approached the last man. One of his buddies replied "We tell him that all the time too." and I told them I really thought they were all the best for doing what they do. At that our 90 second conversation was over and I waited to be seated. A few minutes later they got up to leave and each one either nodded or waved as they left, again with a smile on their faces.
In spite of the skepticism of some, it seemed genuinely appreciated and to have positively impacted their day. I plan to continue doing so, at least until I find valid reason not to. Results to date suggest that may never happen.
