It snowed last night -- quite a bit (considering the winter so far). After shoveling and breakfast, I took the bus to church for a meeting at 9:00. To ensure that I would arrive on time, I got off the bus early, even though it meant a longer walk.

As I was climing the hill on East South River Street (going east from Olde Oneida), a helpful driver stopped to offer me a ride. Thanking her for her thoughtfulness, I declined (it was warm, the snow wasn't deep, and I was enjoying the walk).

Reflecting on the incident afterwards, I found myself both appreciating the hospitality of that anonymous passer-by and wondering whether there was something in my gait or posture or appearance that made it look like I needed a ride!

As my age increases, I find it less and less unusual for people to show some deference toward me or extra consideration of me. And whenever I notice it, I find myself with mixed feelings similar to today's.

Something to ponder...