The Lemonade Stand

Early this week I had a massage.  The masseuse gave me an exercise to do, which requires a small ball.  On my way to Family Dollar a few days later to search for such a ball, I came across two little girls, maybe 10 or 11, running a lemonade stand.  I went on to the dollar store but determined I would stop on my way back.  When I did, the exchange was most interesting to me.  I asked how much the lemonade was and the two looked at each other blankly as though they hadn’t considered that.  So I asked if they were just taking donations for it and the one handling the “purchase” said yes.  Then she asked if it was okay that it was pink lemonade. I said that was fine. 

She and her “partner” in the “business” worked together, one holding the glass, the other pouring.  I gave them 4 quarters, thanked them and drove on.  Who knows what the going rate is for lemonade these days?  I mean, I got a dime from the tooth fairy for each of my teeth and I know kids now getting Microsoft stock. (Okay, that’s an exaggeration, but I have heard some tooth fairy quotes way beyond the inflation rate!)

 When I got back to the church, where other duties awaited me, I pulled in to my parking spot, turned off the engine but sat there a moment.  I recalled a little girl from many years ago, selling lemonade (me), which I sold for 2 cents a glass.  I sold it in front of my house, which was on a dead-end street (not a great business plan).  But it was such a thrill when some neighbor stopped to buy my lemonade.  I considered whether these little girls would get much business either.  They were on a corner, a plus, but not a heavily traveled street.  I started the car, pulled out, and drove back down the street.  I told them that was such good lemonade I needed another glass (which was true!)  This time I gave them a five dollar bill and drove away feeling a warm glow.  They would each have at least three dollars apiece and maybe more.  Beyond that, they would have had the joy of sharing their business operation and perhaps a feeling of accomplishment. 

Here’s to pink lemonade and random acts of kindness!

May we be bearers of hope, the “wait staff” of Hope’s Café for each other and all those we encounter.  Shalom, Kate

• Hope’s Café Bonus: Homemade lemonade:
• 10 large lemons
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 cups water
• Ice
• Lemon slices, for serving
• Cut the lemons in half. Squeeze the juice from the lemons into a bowl, and pour through a strainer to remove the seeds. Add the sugar and water to the lemon juice and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Put the lemonade in the fridge to chill. Serve with ice and lemon slices!