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It was Superbowl Sunday in 1997. Instead of watching the game, my future husband and I went to Third Street Diner on our first date. After some time with the menus, I asked him what he was going to order. With a straight face, he replied “I think I’ll have the No Meat and an Empty Glass.” We laughed. He was making fun of one of the side items - the up charge the Diner levied if you wanted your meal without the meat. We have laughed together a lot since then. I remember his fries came out cold and he didn’t want to send them back, but I insisted and asked the waitress for fresh fries.
About a week before we met, I took a break during my shift at the mall and walked outside. It was quiet. It was right at sunset and the sky was turning a brilliant gold. I closed my eyes and said a prayer. I remember the emotion more than the words, but it was a prayer for connection, for love, for a soul-mate, a friend.
Our first meal together was no great feast – all I remember are the fries – and the laughs – and the overwhelming feeling that my prayer had been answered.
God, we thank you for this food. For rest and home and all things good. For wind and rain and sun above. But most of all for those we love. Amen!
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