I met my friend for lunch the other day. I was early, of course. My friends know that I am ALWAYS early and if I were ever to be late…well, let’s just say that would bring them concern. I simply cannot be late. I’ve even tried to be late before and I never seem to be able to pull it off. My high school teacher would recite to us: “Early is on time and on time is late.” Apparently that philosophy really really stuck.
So yes, I was early and once again didn’t mind as I enjoy the observation time… the being in the moment time… you know me. Rain was on the horizon but it was warm and it gave me time to breathe the fresh air. And to think. And yes, because I am a hip and happenin’ woman (in my own mind) to answer some texts.
While answering one of those texts, a man with very long unkempt strawberry blonde hair came out of the deli. I don't know if he was homeless but I could sense that he did not have much more than the worn clothes on his back and his battered bicycle that he had left out front. He appeared to be about my age. He stopped and saw me sitting there. He looked at me and said, “Hi.” I looked into his face and saw a kind face but also one that seemed almost too trusting. “Hi. How are you today?” was my reply. He smiled a huge childlike smile. “I’m fine. I think it is going to rain.” He looked up at the brooding sky and proceeded to fuss a bit over his bike. He then opened his umbrella and attached it to the back of his seat. I watched him do his thing, marveling at his creative contraption and then said, “You be really careful out there, okay?”
He stopped and looked at me and our eyes met for a moment and then he said so very very innocently and sweetly…
“I love you.”
And for some reason, without hesitation and without fear, I was moved to reply…
“I love you too.”
He smiled and nodded and then he rode away.
I will never forget that moment.
Thank you God. Love IS everywhere. WE just need to be there too.
Love,
Kim
Awesome...it's not the moments that take your breath away that are taken into the heart forever! :D
Posted by: Julie Harward | January 27, 2011 at 12:37 AM
OK. I am bawling my eyes out. That, Kim, is why I always say you are an angel. You see things most of us just cannot see - and your blog helps us slowly......slowly......to see the world in a whole new light.
I love you, too.
And thanks, because I REALLY and truly needed that reminder.
Posted by: Michele | January 27, 2011 at 12:45 AM
Kim -
I LOVE this post! It truly warmed my heart. I think it is so important to connect with our fellow beings, even if it is for only a moment. That moment can last a lifetime.
Toni
Posted by: Toni @ The Tattered Cottage | January 27, 2011 at 12:50 AM
It is not what we see on the outside, it comes from the inside. What a nice encounter. People are people and have a lot to offer and enrich our lives. So glad you ran into this man and I bet you made his day as he made yours. Very typical of you and your love of people.
Posted by: Darlene | January 27, 2011 at 01:31 AM
That made me cry. Thank you for sharing.
Posted by: D'Ann | January 27, 2011 at 02:12 AM
wow you made me stop and picture you and the man on the bike having a conversation - I was quite moved by it. In this day and age when people are so nervous and scared of each other - that you and he just became instant friends.
Posted by: sandra | January 27, 2011 at 04:25 AM
I think you met an angel. I wonder if he was answering a question/helping solve a problem.
But maybe I am just being weird!
Much love,
!)
Posted by: sophie | January 27, 2011 at 04:59 AM
Hi Kim. I can't be late either. It drives me crazy to think that I am going to be late. I would rather get somewhere an hour early. Regarding the man... more people need to say that to each other. I love you. :) Blessings!
Posted by: Kimberly Padilla | January 27, 2011 at 05:02 AM
Awww, how wonderfully and unselfishly sweet. Yes, love IS everywhere, as is good, hope, friendship....we just need to slow down to be able to see it. I am glad you did and that you shared it with us! xoxo Connie
Posted by: connie | January 27, 2011 at 05:04 AM
Kim, I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes, what a Blessing, as I was reading this a beautiful verse from the Bible came to mind.
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers
for thereby some people have entertained angels
unawares. Hebrews 13:2 Praise God!! Just Beautiful.
Trish xox ;)
Posted by: Trish Rowley | January 27, 2011 at 05:29 AM
Wow ~ what a beautiful post. Everyone needs love and that man gave it freely to you and you gave it back. What a beautiful moment~;-)
Posted by: vintagegal | January 27, 2011 at 06:32 AM
Aw, thanks for speaking to the little guy. But you never know....you could have been "entertaining angels unawares."
Thanks for being kind to him, Kim, and thanks for sharing your story.
Blessings to you, Kim!
xoxoxo,
Ricki Jill
Posted by: Ricki Jill Treleaven | January 27, 2011 at 07:23 AM
What a heart warming post. As I was reading the post I was thinking of the same verse as Kim. We never know the heart or for whence they come the Angels God sends into our lives. I think you have been Touched By An Angel. Thanks for sharing. ~~Sherry~~
Posted by: Sherry | January 27, 2011 at 07:24 AM
I'm moved by your story. It is a shame there aren't more people like you and the man on the bike in this world. It would certainly be a better place. Thanks for sharing this with all of us. Have a wonderful day!
Posted by: Jana T | January 27, 2011 at 07:26 AM
What a sweet story :) Thank you for sharing! I am going to try to be early from here on out so I dont miss out on things like that :D
So glad you are posting, Love you!
Posted by: Lyss | January 27, 2011 at 08:11 AM
Wow, what a powerful post! Most of us try to shield ourselves from people like this by not making eye contact or ignoring their attempt at conversation--me included. He will probably remember this day for a long time.
Posted by: Alice | January 27, 2011 at 08:27 AM
How rich the world around us is if we open our eyes and our hearts as you did, Kim. Bless your heart and his heart.
I love you, too!
Hugs!
Posted by: Barbara Anne | January 27, 2011 at 08:32 AM
I think he was an angel.
Posted by: Mary Lou | January 27, 2011 at 08:49 AM
So loving....and I agree with Mary Lou...he was an angel!! Or maybe God Himself. How wonderful! And how wonderful for you to respond as you did. Bless you! Thanks for that uplifting blog.
Posted by: Amy B | January 27, 2011 at 09:44 AM
Hi Kim,
On my goodness - Thank you for sharing the lovely story about the man on the bike. I agree with Mary Lou - I think he was an Angel sent just to you and for you to share with us.
Have a beautiful day.
Blessings,
Erin and Bentely
Posted by: Erin Houghton | January 27, 2011 at 09:44 AM
You really are an angel and touch all of those around you. You really made this mans day, and mine, too!
XO,
Janie
Posted by: Jane | January 27, 2011 at 09:45 AM
Good Morning Kim,
What a sweet story. Your humanity toward the less fortunate was so inspiring. I can imagine the man on the bike going thru his day without the kindness you gave to him and he was so appreciative he felt like he just had to show you how he felt. If each one of us reading this blog would practice the same amount of kindness and pass it on we could make an impact for change.
xoxoxo,
Renie
Posted by: Renie Cee | January 27, 2011 at 09:45 AM
Beautiful.
Posted by: Alisa | January 27, 2011 at 09:53 AM
Thank you for sharing this very special moment in your life, Kim. If only we could all treat one another with such kindness. I will remember your story - it's truly touched me.
Have a happy day.
xo susan
Posted by: susan | January 27, 2011 at 10:00 AM
I seriously believe he was there for a reason. I have a saying hanging on one of my walls that says "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers........for thereby some have entertained ANGELS unaware". You two have made each others day for a long time and you didn't even know each others name............
Posted by: JAN FROM IOWA | January 27, 2011 at 10:01 AM
What a beautiful post - thank you - You touched his life and he touched yours and the most fabulous thing is that you both touched our lives by helping folk from all over the world have a better day.......
Posted by: janet | January 27, 2011 at 10:15 AM
That is so beautiful. I too once spoke with a tattered older gentleman, he looked tough, it was at a Burger King. He held the door, met me eye to eye and was so genuine. I felt such peace from him. God is everywhere, especially where we don't always look. I am moved to tears by your beautiful story.
I love you too Kim, this blog is always a fresh start to my day.
And I can not be late either...I also have tried.
Posted by: Shannon Olson | January 27, 2011 at 10:24 AM
As I read this post I found my self say Wow , Kim you are truly an Angel sent to earth
to show the rest of us what true kindness is about , Bless You , =>)
Posted by: Lois Lightweight | January 27, 2011 at 10:36 AM
Wow!
Posted by: Laura Anthony | January 27, 2011 at 10:36 AM
~ Love ~
Posted by: Reenie | January 27, 2011 at 10:41 AM
These kind of stories are why I read your post daily and I think he was an angel, maybe not a heavenly one but most certainly an earthly one. Kim you have such a gift that touches so many!!!
Posted by: Terrie | January 27, 2011 at 10:47 AM
There's a lump in my throat.
He was a messenger, I had a similar experience year's ago. I too will never forget, it was almost like a dream but I was wide awake. I truly believe now that the message came from my Dad. Nothing can make me believe otherwise.
You are blessed!
Sheila
Posted by: Sheila | January 27, 2011 at 10:50 AM
Where there is LOVE there is GOD.
Posted by: My Blessed Serendipity Life | January 27, 2011 at 10:51 AM
Wow! What a wonderful day! I still have goosebumps.
Love you!
Posted by: Annette | January 27, 2011 at 10:58 AM
What a touching and beautiful experience. No judging, no preconceived ideas, just a moment of sweet honesty. I'm sure you made each others day.
Posted by: Debra | January 27, 2011 at 11:04 AM
Wow. I bet he's so used to people who look past him.
Posted by: Renee | January 27, 2011 at 11:12 AM
How Beautiful of YOU to be Be There, where LOVE was!!! SOOOO AWESOME!!! God IS Love! :)
God Bless You, Kim!
Posted by: Mrs.B | January 27, 2011 at 11:22 AM
God bless you Kim....he just put another check mark by your name in his Heavenly Book.
Thanks for sharing this....
Linda
Posted by: Linda | January 27, 2011 at 11:29 AM
i'm in tears too...a lovely man meets a lovely woman..thank you for sharing.
Posted by: sarita | January 27, 2011 at 11:41 AM
Dear Kim,
Just had to let you know that I had just come inside after marvelling at a cloud in the blue sky - much like your picture. My cloud was shaped like a crown. Then I read your post and, of course, cried a little. I have a daughter with Down syndrome and have watched her angel ways affect people and bring smiles and love. Thank you for this post and the reminder that the greatest gift is love.
Beth
Posted by: Beth Payne | January 27, 2011 at 12:01 PM
I think that is one of the sweetest things I have ever heard and wish that could be the way we would be towards each other. That is what God would love and bless you and that man.
Posted by: Missy | January 27, 2011 at 12:05 PM
What an awesome encounter, Kim. I call those God-moments. I've had some of those, and you don't forget them. They show you what's REALLY important in this ol' world. :)
Posted by: Rhonda | January 27, 2011 at 12:10 PM
AAAAA I have a lump in my throat after reading that Kim...thank you so much for sharing that with us....It makes our world seem kinder, gentler and loved.
Hugs to you my friend and I love you too!!!!
Amy (Mom to the Four Sisters)
Posted by: Amy Henry | January 27, 2011 at 12:27 PM
Thank you for the beautiful story. I really needed to hear that today. God Bless You!
Posted by: Cheryl | January 27, 2011 at 12:32 PM
This is a sweet post!
I have tears in my eyes!
Yes, Love is EVERYWHERE!
KIMA, YOU ARE SOOOOOOO LOVED!
Posted by: Jackie | January 27, 2011 at 12:32 PM
Bless your sweet heart for being so kind to a stranger.
Posted by: Stephanie C. | January 27, 2011 at 12:34 PM
Love. Love. Love. Love is all we need!
Posted by: Ellen Roa | January 27, 2011 at 12:47 PM
He probably has not had the opportunity to say "I Love you" to anyone in awhile.So you were the one he felt most comfortable about doing it.You must have a face that is warm and sincere.As we all know from reading your posts.
Posted by: Charlene | January 27, 2011 at 12:59 PM
Gosh, what a tear jerking moment! You know, one time about 10 years ago I read somewhere and don't know even remember where, but a man I respected greatly, said that whenever anyone asks him for a coin or dollar he always gives it even if it his almost his own last coin or dollar as he felt God placed that person in front of him for a reason. I've tried to live that way ever since and if nothing else, it makes me feel a bit better knowing I can help in a teeny tiny way. And I tell you, when I have been unemployed and in despair many times over the past few years, the kindness and generosity of both friends and strangers has been plentiful!!
You're the best, Kim, and don't forget it!!!
xo
Posted by: Kelly | January 27, 2011 at 01:03 PM
Well, Miss Kim. You can cross off your bucket list to be told "I love you" by one of God's angels. As I read your story I was enveloped with a warm sense of peace.
Hugs!
Posted by: Jean | January 27, 2011 at 01:17 PM
Oh,Kim, what a beautiful moment in time. You are truly an amazing woman. You would be a wonderful author. Don't know if you ever thought about it, but God gave you a special gift with words. You are truly a blessing to us all. Love, from Okla, Cindy
Posted by: Cindy | January 27, 2011 at 01:26 PM
two entities saw each other despite their earthly vessels. Thank you
Posted by: Charmaine Deadman | January 27, 2011 at 01:27 PM
What a beautiful post today. Earlier posters have said it all. Ditto for me. xoxoxox
Posted by: Barbara F. | January 27, 2011 at 01:50 PM
That story gave me chills. What a brief yet profound moment in time.
Posted by: Debbie | January 27, 2011 at 02:04 PM
Thank you for sharing that beautiful moment with us. I hope that I too would react the same. I am weepy from reading your message........and losing a friend thia am to cancer. Life can be beautiful most of the time. Thank you. Debbie
Posted by: Debbie Masters | January 27, 2011 at 02:28 PM
What an amazing moment...a little girl that I met for the first time did that...except she just looked into my eyes and then said "I love you" and then wrapped her arms around my neck and hugged me. It was sooo precious, I will never forget it.
Posted by: samantha | January 27, 2011 at 02:39 PM
Ever think maybe you were not early at all? I think you were right on time to make this person's day. I'm with Trish on the scripture from Heb. Thanks for sharing this awesome moment in your life.
God Bless you, sweet friend!
Posted by: Melesa | January 27, 2011 at 02:47 PM
Kim,
You write so beautifully and effortlessly. You DO have a gift Kim and this post shows it so well. Your writing reminds me so much of Sue Monk Kidd. Many years ago I got 'Guideposts' magazine and she was featured quite often in it. I was always so happy when there was a story by her. She then went on to write the best-selling 'Mermaid's Chair'. I know that someday we're going to see a book by Kimberly McCole!! Hugs..Sue
Posted by: Sue | January 27, 2011 at 03:43 PM
Thanks for sharing. I too think it was an angel, like Sophie mentioned. :) Touching!!!!
Posted by: jen | January 27, 2011 at 03:59 PM
It's a wonderful life, isn't it?!
Posted by: Sandi ~ A Cottage Muse | January 27, 2011 at 04:10 PM
i loved this...it brought tears to my eyes. thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Neisey | January 27, 2011 at 04:43 PM
Angels Unaware... what a gift..
Posted by: Carol Adams | January 27, 2011 at 05:25 PM
I love you Kim :)
rue
Posted by: rue | January 27, 2011 at 05:26 PM
Beautiful!
(((HUGS)))
Laurel :)
Posted by: Laurel | January 27, 2011 at 05:39 PM
i believe that if you are open to the experience you will be in the presence of an angel of God at an unexpected moment. i think you had that moment.
hugs,
shelley
Posted by: sweet pea | January 27, 2011 at 05:39 PM
Kim, That is so so sweet and touching. I am going to email you a photo I took today when I went to pick up my daughter from school.I hope you have time to look at it. It is unbelievable. I felt God smiling down as I stood in amazement looking at this. I plan to blog about it when I can. xo rachel
Posted by: A Romantic Porch | January 27, 2011 at 06:08 PM
Thank you for sharing. Your message came at just the right time for me. God bless.
Posted by: Monique | January 27, 2011 at 07:40 PM
Angel unaware.
Posted by: Kate | January 27, 2011 at 07:42 PM
Oh Kim, this gave me sweet chills. We ALL need love. Every.single.one.of.us!
Hugs,
Kat
Posted by: Kat | January 27, 2011 at 08:00 PM
You brought tears to my eyes and my 2 yr. old Ruby said, "Mommy crying?" "Its okay, I just read a good story," I said back. "It's all right," she replied and you know she is right! It is all right. Thanks for sharing, some times I forget to look into others eyes and we all should.
Posted by: Michelle | January 27, 2011 at 08:01 PM
Kim,
Thanks and God Bless Sherry
Posted by: Sherry Smith | January 27, 2011 at 09:11 PM
Simply beautiful.
Posted by: Kimberly | January 27, 2011 at 10:50 PM
I think you may have entertained an angel unaware. The scriptures say that happens. What an awesome and moving story. Thank you so much for sharing it.
Debbie
Posted by: Debbie Howard | January 28, 2011 at 12:09 AM
Thank you. You showed this gentleman that he had worth. I think that is what we all want...........
Posted by: rose | January 28, 2011 at 12:22 AM
Hi Kim....Been there/done that. It feels other-worldly, doesn't it. These are winks from God; I'm sure of it. Take Care. :0)
Posted by: Bonnie Buchiarelli | January 28, 2011 at 01:22 AM
Dear Kim, Earlier in the evening I had read your story about the The Man On The Bike and all the comments on it. Much, much later while playing a game it came to me, that angel was sent by Tabatha to thank you and all your lovely ladies who helped Jack throught his most difficult time with Hearts for Jack. I truly believe she wanted you to know how thankful and how dear she holds all of you for your kindness. We are all on our Lord's time and today was Tabatha's time to send her message to you and your ladies. Linda
Posted by: Linda | January 28, 2011 at 01:28 AM
Dear Kim,
I really LOVE this post!!!
It almost made me cry. It really touched my heart.
LOVE is everywhere, it doesn't cost a thing... you only need to open your heart!
Have a wonderful weekend, LOVE Nina.
Posted by: Nina | January 28, 2011 at 03:34 AM
Kim, what a wonderful story! Thanks for sharing, it has absolutely brightened my day!
Posted by: Kim St. Jean | January 28, 2011 at 06:25 AM
You were early so you were relaxed and able to have that encounter. I'm usually early, too, and I like to think that I have an approachable face and manner. People are always asking me things in the grocery store. And I'm always willing to answer them. Thanks for sharing with us, Kim.
Posted by: Ann | January 28, 2011 at 11:12 AM
What an extraordinary story. Perfect love casts out fear. Have a wonderful weekend! Twyla
Posted by: two crazy crafters | January 28, 2011 at 11:16 AM
To show true kindness and concern for someone in this day and age is precious and valuable... But to look a stranger
in the eye and show love.. is Christ in us!! Love shared is amazing!!! As the tears flow.... I am once again reminded .... How a stranger (or just someone whom we have never had the joy of meeting yet) can touch our daily lives!!! Thank you Kim, Terri
Posted by: Terri Driggers | January 28, 2011 at 11:41 AM
Such a beautiful story....
God has his way of letting us know
how much we are loved.
xoxo
Becky
Posted by: sweet cottage dreams | January 28, 2011 at 12:27 PM
A "Divine Moment" meant just for Kim. Just for Kim from Jesus. A message and a smile just for Kim. No matter what, never forget that you are loved Kim. You matter and Jesus sent a messenger to tell you that. Believe and Savior the memory. You are blessed dear friend! xoxo
Posted by: Cheryl | January 28, 2011 at 02:44 PM
Oh...this touched me so much too. You have such a sweet soul Kim! love you too!
Posted by: Betty @ She's Sew Pretty | January 28, 2011 at 03:07 PM
I believe he was an angel too. I'm sure of it ;)
Posted by: Terri Takacs | January 28, 2011 at 03:25 PM
Kim, that was so sweet and tender, it brought a tear to my eye. You are such a dear person.
Posted by: G from GA | January 28, 2011 at 04:38 PM
Oh dear Kim, what an absolutely lovely & touching story.... thank you for Blessing us by sharing it! love & hugs to you....
Posted by: Joyce | January 28, 2011 at 07:56 PM
I agree he was an angel. I've experienced something similar and loved hearing your story.
Posted by: RockerJewlz | January 29, 2011 at 05:44 AM
i think people know when you see what's truly inside them and it can take place in just a moment. i just sat here and cried for that man---he probably could see in your eyes that you saw the kindness in him--- the "real" him and he needed that---and I believe that he meant it when he said he loved you.
Posted by: lisa | January 29, 2011 at 08:41 PM
and BTW the same thing happened to me---I met an angel and he touched my heart and I loved him if only for a moment. XOXO
Posted by: lisa | January 29, 2011 at 08:43 PM
And I will never forget this story.
Posted by: Cheryl | January 30, 2011 at 03:49 PM
Simply lovely...
Posted by: paintergal | January 30, 2011 at 06:25 PM
I think it is possible he may have been your angel, but I am positively certain you were a huge blessing to him.
So many people would not have responded the way you did, they would have felt weird or worried that he was "freaky" or something. I don't know if I would have been able to tell him I loved him, I really don't. I do hope, that should I ever be in a similar situation I will remember your story (I am sure I will) and be more open hearted, and less afraid.
By the way, I read a lot and have for a couple of years, but I don't usually respond.
Posted by: Louise | January 31, 2011 at 11:12 AM
That was so sweet! :)
Posted by: Heather | January 31, 2011 at 12:50 PM
I just wandered into your blog and read The Man on the Bike. I truly believe Jesus visits us through others and gives us the opportunity to show our love for him and his children. It is obvious he had a visit with you and you listened not only with your ears but with your heart.
Bless You...
A new fan of your blog...
Cheryl
Posted by: cheryl | January 31, 2011 at 04:59 PM
Sometimes I think God may appear in the form of strangers. Good for you to treat him with kindness.
Posted by: Patty O'Malley | January 31, 2011 at 07:09 PM
And here's a tardy HUG all the way from India. Thanks a lot Kim, for being!
Posted by: Sreekala | February 01, 2011 at 04:34 AM
I had to come back and read this again, because it touched me so. It takes a very special and loving spirit to be open enough to see the beauty and value in that simple encounter. Many would have ignored or even shunned that gentleman. But you had the wisdom to be truly present in that moment.
This reminds me of my favorite quote: "We cannot all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love. " Mother Theresa
Thank you for sharing and may God bless.
Posted by: Deb Routte | February 01, 2011 at 09:27 AM
Amazing story! Thank you for sharing :) The world needs more love.
Posted by: Stephanie Laura Murray | February 01, 2011 at 10:30 AM
I would have been the one to shun this poor man out of fear.I would have been too busy, rushing and worried that he would ask for money or try and hurt you.Yes I am that person sad to say.I would RATHER be open,calm and gentle like Kim and so many who posted here.Maybe some day.I LOVED the story it will stay with me always and possibly influence an encounter some day.
Posted by: Pam McCormick | February 01, 2011 at 01:41 PM