The Arbor Master

One summer, I got a job at the Houston Arboretum, helping to take care of the trails. It was by far the best job I’ve ever had. Although, my grandmother would be quick to point out that it wasn’t a job, because I didn’t get paid. So, I guess it was the best unpaid internship that I’ve ever had.

I was paired up with the park caretaker to do pretty much anything he asked. We hit it off right away. He worked me hard, and I was exhausted when my shift was finally over. But in return, he taught me about the trees and plants, and I absorbed it like a sponge. I loved learning, and I still remember most of what he taught me to this day, some 27 years later.

The only downside was the poison ivy that ran rampant throughout the place. And since our job was to clear brush, repair or make trails, and cultivate plant health; we were constantly in the thick of it. I didn’t actually know that I was highly allergic to poison ivy until I worked there. One brush with the plant’s oil, and I’d break out into severe blisters. But I didn’t let it stop me from going back, even though I contracted poison ivy three separate times that summer.

But it was all worth it. It was the best experience, and if I were to describe my ideal job at the time, that was it. A seemingly endless forest to hike and explore. No signs of the city anywhere. Just peace, nature, and God. I considered that as a viable career choice, but the pay, even for the caretaker, was atrocious. I guess people like enjoying nature, but they don’t want to pay someone to take care of it for them.

The Beautiful Smile

Today, while sitting at the stoplight on my way to get my son, I saw a homeless man standing on the side of the road. He was half-heartedly begging for money. At one point, he stood there in a daze, raggedy cardboard sign dangling by his side, staring at the ground. He had all the makings of someone on drugs, his eyes hooded and half-closed.

But then he looked up and saw a dog in the car stopped next to him, and he completely transformed. He started making kissy faces at the dog, completely unhindered by how ridiculous he looked. And then the dog did something playful and silly, and the man’s face broke into a huge toothless smile. I’ve never seen such a smile. It was, for lack of a better word, beautiful. It was so honest and genuine. He was so happy in that moment, and he looked a different man entirely.

I guess you can’t truly judge a book by its cover. Hidden underneath in its pages might be a beautiful smile just waiting to come out. And never underestimate the power of a dog to bring it out.