Wednesday, March 11, 2009

An Angel Unaware


Every once in a while God smiles down on us in ways we never dreamed possible. Take, for example, my manager at Rugged Country Lodge, Charlotte Cline. Our meeting and her subsequent job employment with us could only be called "A God Thing". It just so happens that on that day God was smiling down on both of us at the same time!

I was going through check out at the local Walmart in Pendleton, Oregon one afternoon with my at the time motel manager, Cheryl. (Unfortunately, it seems we always have a need to make a Walmart run.) I had a blazing headache by the time I reached checkout. (Walmart always does that to me) and I was tired.

I wasn’t paying much attention to the gray haired lady behind the counter ringing up our purchases until she said to Cheryl, "I know you. You’re the manager of Rugged Country Lodge. http://www.ruggedcountrylodge.com/Do you remember I stayed there once when I first came to town? I really love your place." (It wasn't quite the run on I made it out to be, but you get the idea.)

I’m not sure if it was her voice, her words or her countenance; but I suddenly looked up and really noticed her. She was a taller stately, middle aged woman with beautiful gray hair, blue/green eyes that looked straight at you and a silken pink complexion. There was a quiet grace and beauty about her no one could deny.


Before I had a chance to even think, the words came tumbling out of my mouth, "Would you like a job?" (Afterall, we were always looking for good people.)

To my utter shock and surprise she immediately said, "Yes." And she meant it! She was miserable at Walmart and standing on the concrete all day was killing her. In addition, she was new to Pendleton, newly widowed and somewhat sad and discourged at being there.

The next day she came by the Lodge, filled out an application to work the front desk, and the rest is history–but what an interesting and amazing story she has! I'd like to write more but time doesn't permit right now! However, for now, let me leave you with this from Hebrews 13:2

"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." Charlotte lives out this principle in everyway! If you'd like to know more about this remarkable person, check back tomorrow!

In the meantime, Happy trails!--Becky