Four Ice Cream Cones

By Mary Nella McLaughlin • June 5, 2014

16 year old Marrissa and I went out for ice cream after the service. We had just heard a challenging message on meals that count. A meal that counts is when you invite someone to eat with you that you don’t know or have as a guest someone who needs a meal and friendship.

We were mulling this over as we drove to 31 Flavors. We passed a young man standing by himself in front of the door. Marrissa nudged me, "Ask him if he wants ice cream or otherwise our time at 31 Flavors won't count.” I cringed but knew she was right.

"Can we buy you an ice cream cone?"

"What?"

"My friend and I would like to buy you an ice cream cone."

"Your invitation is so random I am going to say 'yes.' "

"Great!"

We had a wonderful conversation while we waited for our ice cream. He was new to town and was glad to meet someone and share why he chose to move his family here. He had hoped for just such encounters of friendliness and community spirit.

I turned to look for Marrissa and saw her outside talking to an old man digging through the garbage. She soon brought him in to the ice cream store, announcing that she had her own money and she had found someone to 'come to the table' with her.

The four of us sat outside eating our ice cream together and talking for the next hour.

Some 'meals' you never forget. That will be one of them.

SHARE YOUR STORY

Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz

feel good videoMom Asks Her Son About His Day. He Answers Like A 47-Year-Old Twice Divorced Man

feel good storiesExtremely Fearful, Shut Down Foster Dog Finally Gives Humanity A Chance Again

feel good stories'You Were My Guardian Angel': Man’s Silent Act Comforts Crying Woman On Train

feel good storiesWoman’s Encounter With NFL Rookie On Plane Goes Viral

feel good storiesHe Was Just A “Rental Player.” Now He’s A Star Seen By Millions

feel good storiesAdorable Newborn Fawn Discovered Outside Library — And The Photos Are Magical

feel good videoHERO Cat Charges Out Of Gym To Save Feline Friend From Vicious Dog Attack

feel good videoMom Asks Her Son About His Day. He Answers Like A 47-Year-Old Twice Divorced Man

feel good videoA Large Group Of Dogs Are Fighting. Watch What Happens When The Alpha Walks Up

feel good videoThis Fluffy Chicken Comes Running When Called, Does A Happy Dance For Mom

feel good videoThis Goofy Chihuahua Is Stealing Hearts With Its Toy-Like Moves

Chris Filippou 12:17PM (3 minutes ago) to me