At work today, a man called who I haven't seen in over 17 years. He was managing a construction site at the time and called us in for advice and an estimate. I vaguely remember meeting him. But when he called today, I immediately recalled his name and that we met before, long ago. I never dealt with him again after that one job. He is older by about 20 years. Anyway, during the course of our conversation, amid the technical questions and inquiring how business has been, he said something that I will never forget. Very hesitantly, apologetically, he said to me ... "I still remember the day you and your husband came to see me, and excuse my honesty, but what struck me was, how beautiful you were." I thanked him. A generous compliment. I don't think he realized how choked up I became. I don't think we realize how honesty needs no excuse. Or how powerful it is until we are held in the grip of it.
