Fresh roasted coffee beans and basic grocery items were on my list. Today’s destination for both was the Coop Centre in the port area. While the location is not fancy, it covers both goals. Milestone’s coffee is roasted with care and, with its normal turnover, always fresh. The Coop is a casual combination of everything one might possibly be looking for in an old fashion department store, including groceries. The location is not on the way to anywhere, so those going here usually have a reason.
It is easy to forget what is available at the Centre and focus on what one needs. My trip yesterday was relaxed and timeless. As I looked through the items on sale, I found myself staring at a 50 kg (110-pound) bag of sugar. I looked around me, wondering if I had missed any signals about the target audience for the store. There were kids with most shoppers. For the ones without, it was clear they were shopping for themselves.
My thoughts took me back to the question, “Who would buy this quantity of sugar at a grocery store?” Even if there was a buyer, how would s/he get it home?
This morning I am still wondering. My reflection raises a second question. Given that I have been to this store several times, how did I miss the sack of sugar? I am sure it has been there, but I clearly was not paying attention. My takeaways for today include the following.
Being attentive is a commitment and ongoing action. Many, myself included far too many times, are walking through life with a narrow vision. It is a repeat of an old story where “nobody who knows the score, nobody alert for God.” (Romans 3.11)
Threads and whispers in the day reveal a bigger picture. It is always on display, available if we are interested and attentive.
Being aware does not automatically mean one picks up everything. The heavy sugar stack is, to my knowledge, still in the store. The Coop items are me were found and are in use.
