The man with the red trucks

Red is one of my favorite colors. Naturally I notice when it appears that others may share my fondness for the color red. Red is a power color. When defining personalities with colors, red is also the color that most leaders, hard workers, stubborn, a little challenging to get along with people turn up as also!

My entire growing up years, and even up to this very day there is a person I know and admire who has red trucks. Red pick-up trucks and red farm trucks-for those that differentiate between a truck and A TRUCK! When I was a little child I would sometimes see this man in the community. I would often see him driving one of the above mentioned red trucks. I would see him at church and on occasion I would see him in his home.

He was held in high esteem in the community. He was respected in all circles that he was involved in. I remember seeing him at church. Always dressed sharply, carrying a brief case. I don't know if he still carries a brief case, but he used to, back when I was a kid.

For as long as I can remember, this man would always or almost always come up to me, whether at church or in the community, shake my hand, squeeze my arm and give me a smile and say "Hi!" It was nothing big or grand, in fact, I bet he doesn't even realize that he did, and still does it.

Even though it is a small gesture, it has left a lasting impression on me. People need to be acknowledged. People need human contact and human touch. People need to feel welcome and recognized. This man did all of these things. He made me feel welcome!

Over the past 35 years I have observed this man. He has had challenges and trials, like all of us do. He is not perfect. However, he has always, in my eyes, been a man of character. He has worked hard all his life. He has helped others around him. He has served in the church. He has served in the community. And above all, he made a little girl-and a grown woman smile and feel appreciated by his simple, kind act of saying "Hi" and extending a hand of friendship!

Mr. Lou Wettstein, owner of Red Trucks, I appreciate your example. I appreciate the kindness, you extend to me. I love your color choice in vehicles! I am grateful that I have been the recipient of your firm handshakes and gentle smile!

I hope to be able to remember people. To be the kind of person who extends a hand of friendship and a warm smile, not because it is expected, but because it is part of my character. Maybe someday, I will be able to own a Red Truck, and too, be able to help the people I am around to feel appreciated and always welcome.