I’ll call him “Thomas.” That’s not his real name, but in the interest of his privacy, I’ll choose a good, sturdy biblical name. Thomas bagged all our groceries yesterday, wheeled them to the car and placed them in the trunk. (This customer service is unique to Ukrop’s Grocery. Founded in Richmond and still family-owned and operated, Ukrop’s is known for service, charitable contributions and community consciousness. The Ukrop family is serious about the Christian faith – so much so, that stores are closed on Sunday and won’t sell alcohol. Ukrop’s also gives a 10% discount to religious organizations of every kind – including Saint Gertrude Convent.) Back to the bagging...
It took me quite a while to get used to this “service.” I am, as you know, a healthy 40-something from NJ. I am strong, rather independent and completely capable of bagging our groceries. But, this added service creates jobs. Men and women of every age, race and ability become Ukrop’s baggers. Some, like Thomas, are differently-abled. Thomas isn’t fast. He works steadily with great concentration. Thomas doesn’t always get it right. He dropped a container of ice cream in the parking lot and tossed the Diet Coke in the trunk with a little more passion than necessary. But Thomas gave me more than good service yesterday. He gave me a glimpse of the disabled Christ. It isn’t about speed or “doing it right.” It’s about the dignity of work for all people and the dream of a world where everyone has a place to give. Thomas has also helped me to let go of the frustration of letting someone else do what I am capable of doing. Thomas is teaching me how to let others do for me and one day, I’ll have no choice there. GOD bless you, Thomas. And GOD bless you, Mr. Ukrop, for giving JESUS a job in my neighborhood.
Blessings and love to you all...
- Sister Vicki
It took me quite a while to get used to this “service.” I am, as you know, a healthy 40-something from NJ. I am strong, rather independent and completely capable of bagging our groceries. But, this added service creates jobs. Men and women of every age, race and ability become Ukrop’s baggers. Some, like Thomas, are differently-abled. Thomas isn’t fast. He works steadily with great concentration. Thomas doesn’t always get it right. He dropped a container of ice cream in the parking lot and tossed the Diet Coke in the trunk with a little more passion than necessary. But Thomas gave me more than good service yesterday. He gave me a glimpse of the disabled Christ. It isn’t about speed or “doing it right.” It’s about the dignity of work for all people and the dream of a world where everyone has a place to give. Thomas has also helped me to let go of the frustration of letting someone else do what I am capable of doing. Thomas is teaching me how to let others do for me and one day, I’ll have no choice there. GOD bless you, Thomas. And GOD bless you, Mr. Ukrop, for giving JESUS a job in my neighborhood.
Blessings and love to you all...
- Sister Vicki
