The Dime Story

I found a dime last night when I was horrid and cranky and awful to my sweet friend trying to cheer me up. The dime made my night which confused J, who had been trying all night to get me to smile the way I did when I found it. She was pretty irked until I told her the dime story and then she told me I needed to write it, so here goes...

Several years ago I was selling my old car. It was one I had bought from my aunt and uncle after my cousin (the former owner) died of AIDS. I was finally making enough money so I decided to buy a new car all on my own for the first time in my life. I arranged to have my old car picked up midday from my office and all I needed was to walk to the bus stop from work and take the bus downtown to the dealership for the new car.

When I started walking towards the stop I realized I only had a dollar bill and 40 cents in change in my pocket. Now the bus driver doesn't give change and I didn't want to use my whole dollar for a fifty cent fare so I sent a message to the universe (God). I told God I needed a dime. Just a dime, not much to ask for and certainly He could afford it. So, I set about the walk from the office to the stop, keeping my eyes peeled for the dime I had faith to find on the way. I stared at every shiny object, every crevice, every round flat bit of detritus, knowing I would find my dime before arriving at the stop.

So, what happened next? Well, the neatly packaged inspirational story would have me find my dime and my prayer would be answered, showing all that God rewards the faithful.

Well, no.

I didn't find the dime and had to give my whole dollar for the bus fare and I was none too pleased.

So, I had another convo with the big guy. "Geez, was it so much to ask? One dime? I ask so little of life, I mean really?"

Well, after that experience I now, consistently, regularly, at every turn, every opportunity, and especially every trying, low time in my life, find dimes. Everywhere. Parking lots, coin returns, on hikes, on sidewalks, every imaginable location.

So, is this some sort of universal joke? Yes. God has a great sense of humor. See, I may think I know when something is needed but God replies- "Not your schedule. Mine." Now as I find my regular gift of a dime, I grin a huge grin and know God and the angels are laughing with delight. And I am loved, not forgotten, and always looked after.

It's nice to have an inside joke with the creator.

Here's hoping you find your dimes.