A Colorful Encounter: A Grandfather’s Wisdom in a Food Court
Last weekend, I took my 92-year-old dad to the mall to buy him a new pair of shoes. After we finished shopping, we headed to the food court for a quick meal and found a spot next to a teenager whose hair was styled into bright, spiked colors. Vivid shades of green, red, orange, and blue stood straight up like a painted sunrise.
Naturally, my dad couldn’t look away. He didn’t stare with judgment — just quiet fascination, the kind that comes from someone who has lived long enough to see the world change in surprising ways. I noticed the boy shifting a little, stealing uncertain glances at my dad, clearly confused about why this elderly man kept watching him.
Eventually, the teen grew impatient and asked with a playful yet sarcastic tone, “What’s the matter, sir? Never done anything fun in your life?” I held my breath, knowing my dad’s wit was sharper than ever despite his age. My meal nearly stuck in my throat as I prepared for his response. Dad calmly set his fork down and smiled gently before replying. His words were so unexpected that even the boy leaned in slightly.
“When I was young,” Dad said, “I didn’t have colorful hair, but I tried to make the world around me brighter through kindness, respect, and joy.” The table fell silent for a moment as those simple words settled in. He continued, “It’s wonderful that you express yourself through color. Just remember that the brightest thing you can share is your character.” The teenager blinked, his expression softening from attitude to quiet reflection.
A smile slowly appeared on the boy’s face as he nodded, whispering a soft “thank you.” Dad simply went back to his meal like it was just another moment in the day. Meanwhile, I sat there in awe, amazed at how wisdom could be shared so gently yet leave such a deep impact. That afternoon reminded me that while appearances may catch the eye, it’s the heart that truly leaves a lasting impression.
