Abe’s my heroe

I saw Abe the other day, as i was standing out on the ramp at work.  He was holding on to the handrail and struggling to walk on thin legs that he appeared to have little control over.

I was immediately ashamed for all the complaining i’d been doing over my pathetic little backache that’s been slowing me down this week.

It’s been several years since i’ve seen Abe.  Around ten years ago, he was in a car accident that he wasn’t expected to survive from.  I’m sure his beautiful wife and daughter were a great motivation for surviving.  He spent months in the hospital and rehab and eventually, came back to his computer job on the base, struggling with every step he took with his walker.

But his determination was admirable.  And although i’m sure he’s gone through the gammet of emotions, i’ve never seen his former humble, sweet, always helpful personality change.  And that heart-winning boyish smile is still intact.

I walked down the ramp and caught Abe as he was resting.  I think i was truly amazed that he hadn’t progressed any further in the years since i’d seen him.  And i wondered if he still had to pick his leg up to move it when he was sitting down.

It’s been at least eight years, but Abe remembered my face and greeted me with a smile.  As soon as i told him my name, he said, "You’ve changed your hair."  We talked for a minute about how he’s doing (he claims it’s all good!) and he asked about the folks i worked with.  I didn’t want to tire him out any more, so i got a hug and let him go on his way.

Truly, i’d forgotten about Abe over the years.  And our paths don’t cross (much) any more since his job changes.  But…i think the good Lord just wanted to re-open my eyes to everything i have to be thankful for (i’m quite sure He gets tired of my complaining).

And, yes, He got my attention.

Abe’s my heroe.