Deliver Me

As most of you probably know, working several jobs and grad school during the school year are not very conducive to dating around and meeting the man of your dreams. The interactions I have while at work must tide me over in the meantime. There is one part of my day, however, that gives my heart some flittering action. Around 5:00, the Fed-Ex man pulls up in his truck. I don't even know his name, but I have come to look forward to his arrival.

I have to be careful not to look overeager, and I wait patiently until he fully approaches the window before I slide it over to greet him. I usually click my mouse a few times so that it appears that I am quite busy while nonchalantly recognizing his appearance. He will no doubt ask me how I am doing, and I have yet to find a unique way to respond with, "Doing well, thank you!" Occasionally, I find ways to make small talk when the situation calls for it. Like the time the air conditioner was broken and sweat was profusely pouring down my face. I felt the need to let him know why I looked so disheveled.

Today, the phone rang as he approached and that southern accent that comes out when I am around cute boys dribbled from my lips before I could control it. It sounded like Dolly Parton had resumed the receptionist position. Sure enough, the co-worker behind me began to mock my "Can-ya hoooold?" question and he grinned and chuckled to himself.

I know he thought it was adorable.

Sadly, I think this situation will stay the same forever. I mean, I don't know if he has a girlfriend, if he still lives with his Mom, if he lives in his Fed-Ex truck. For all I know, a date with him could ruin my 5:00 daydream.

That's why I think every person needs something to look forward to. It can be silly. It can be absolutely juvenile and ridiculous. But some of the best gifts come in small packages (pun totally intended) and deliverance can come in rare forms.

I know that there will always be a 5-minute break from the chaos of my day. He may present athletes with the new shoes they ordered, an eager musician with those concert tickets he always wanted and a child with the latest toy. But, for me, perhaps the greatest thing he delivers is his smile.