Page 30 - The Woven Tale Press VOl. IV #4

Now, I’ll distract the geese, and you go out the other door to deliver the milk. These guys may be vicious, but they aren’t smart.”
I think we rivaled Olympic athletes on that delivery, but Dad’s strategy worked. In record time, we made it back into the truck, and Dad drove us to safety.
girls, don’t look down on anybody because you think they might be less than you. We’re all humans, and we all deserve respect. Remember that, even if you forget everything else I tell you.
Always know your customers, your audience. Some folks are all bark and no bite. Some will take you down in a heartbeat. Know what to expect, have a plan, and take the appropriate action.
And, as the rest of the world began their day in ear- nest, ours began to end. Balancing ourselves without thought as we rode, talking with Dad in earnest now, we moved into the rest of our day. Dad navigated the streets easily, standing as he drove, and impressing us no end. I can still see that pencil tucked behind his ear.
By now, we had it down to a rhythm, hopping in and out of the truck, making our deliveries. As the sun peeked through the clouds, and the world began to stir, a few folks would greet us at the door to take their milk in for breakfast. Dad would yell a greeting, and sometimes, step out briefly to say hello and tell a few jokes. Laughter rose, smiles bloomed, and people fussed over us, as Dad beamed.
With an empty truck, we headed toward the dairy, rolling through Pennsylvania countryside dotted with cows and steers. With the midmorning sun on our fac- es and the wind in our hair, life was so good. The dairy lay nestled among the hills, sprawling low, long, and white, and signaled a successful ending to our route.
Sometimes, the delivery was to a small store or restau- rant. Working as a team, we’d all troop in, drop off the milk, and quite often, get a treat. Dad greeted each customer – homeowner or business owner – with the same kindness and respect.
We retrieved the car and headed home, each of us hoping for a nap. Dad always thanked us, telling us that he could not have done it without us, and I know our chests puffed up with pride.
Never ever be too busy to say hello. Never miss the chance to make someone smile and laugh. Most of all,
I learned these lessons over 50 years ago, and they stand the test of time. As I move through my days, Dad’s voice tumbles through my mind, and I can so clearly see his facial expressions – that raised eyebrow when he couldn’t believe something or the other I’d done, or not done. I can see the twinkle in his eye and his ever ready smile. And I remember his lessons, always told in the form of a story, and usually a funny one at that.
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I’m proud of you, girls. Look at what we accomplished today, and all because we worked as a team. We did our jobs, and we did them well. What I couldn’t do by myself, got done because of our teamwork. Thank you.