I entered a flower shop to purchase bouquets for my kid and wife. When I saw an old man standing at the door, I had already selected one.
An old-fashioned trench coat, pleated pants, shiny shoes, and a plain blouse underneath the coat.
He didn’t appear to be homeless. He was simply impoverished. But he was proud and remarkably clean.
The elderly guy was approached by a young florist. She spoke without even glancing at him:
— Old man, why are you standing here? You are obstructing customers.
Without arguing, the man only inquired quietly:
I’m sorry, miss. What is the cost of one mimosa branch?
With annoyance, the girl replied:
— Are you insane? You obviously don’t have any money. Why even inquire?
With caution, the man asked, taking three crumpled ten-euro coins out of his pocket:
Perhaps there’s a thirty-something?
After glancing at the cash, the florist grinned and took a nearly lifeless, dull, and broken mimosa stem out of the basket.
— Take it now. Now leave.
The man grasped the branch with care and made a deliberate attempt to straighten it. His face was so dejected that I felt my heart sink when I saw a tear fall down his cheek.
I chose to discipline the impolite and disrespectful florist because I felt a great deal of sympathy for the elderly man.
I approached the florist, feeling enraged:
— Are you even aware of your actions?
Her face went unexpectedly pale as she turned to face me. She remained silent.
I asked her how much the entire basket would cost.
She said, “What?” “Uh, about two hundred euros, I guess.”
I pulled out the cash, gave it to her, then took the floral basket and presented it to the elderly man.
— Take this now. You’re worthy. Send your wife a birthday greeting.
The man was stunned as he stood there. He smiled quietly. Even though he was crying, he continued to hold onto the splintered branch.
I said, “Come on, let’s go together.”
We entered the adjacent store. I purchased a bottle of fine wine and a cake.
The elderly man continued to hold the bouquet as he stood there.
I said, “Don’t worry, Grandpa.” I’m wealthy. Additionally, your wife is adored. Bring her joy.
Unable to contain his tears, he nodded.
— It has been 45 years since we started dating. She is ill. But without flowers, how could I attend her birthday? I’m grateful, son.
