We were in a hurry. It seems that we are always in a hurry when we head into the big “W”. Of course, we only went in to pick up a few items. We both had our assignments and fanned out with the idea of making this absolutely the fastest and cheapest “W” run in the history of consumer shopping. However, the allure of that big store called to us and before we knew it, we remembered we needed this, and that, and how could we survive another day without one of those? When we at last met back at the front of the store and compiled our items, the shopping cart had more than a few items in it, but not to worry, I had seen it much fuller. The ordeal was almost over now. We only had to face one last critical aspect of our mission - run the gallant known as the “check out line”. We were in luck! I spotted a lane with no one in it. Yes! The light was on indicating the sweet grandmother behind the counter was open for business. There was one slight problem- it was a 20 items or less lane. I quickly surveyed the cart and although I thought we might be close, discerned we were under or maybe only slightly over the limit. I wheeled the cart into position and put a big, if not a little sheepish, smile on my face as I greeted our checker. But suddenly, my smile faded as grandma looked hard at my cart and gave me a look that said, “who are you trying to fool?” She did not utter a sound, but I could tell from her quiet demeanor that she was not happy. I gave a nervous laugh and asked if I needed to go to another lane. However, as I started to turn away she did an incredible thing. With one swift movement of her hand, the situation changed. She waved me on over, her smile returned, and the world was good again. Grace is a good thing wherever you find it!

Over the limit,

Bro. James

P.S. We had 32 items in our cart.