The Backward Glance – September 19, 1999
A father recently dropped his young daughter off at school and watched as she hurried up the steps. Then, just before opening the door, she turned back and waved. It was one last way to connect—one last assurance that everything was all right.
We see it as passengers board trains and airplanes, as we drive friends home and wait until they’re at the door, as we bid farewell to those we love and hope to see again. All of us can say the obligatory good-bye, but it’s the backward glance—completely unrequired—which seems to say, “I’m still thinking of you,” “I’ll miss you,” or “I love you.”
This deliberate pause in our parting is one of life’s sweetest pleasures. When someone freely turns back to see us, we know we are cared about. It binds us to one another and takes the sting out of even as brief a separation as a school day. And when we turn to get one last glimpse of loved ones, it’s as if we are taking a mental picture of them to cherish in our hearts.
How easy it is to glance back one last time and give the gift of genuine affection to someone. Often it’s simply a way of saying “thanks again” when a clerk helps us with our groceries or when another driver allows us to change lanes. A young boy made the day for the driver of his school bus when he jumped off at his bus stop, ran a few steps, then turned back and gave the driver a big grin and a wave before continuing home. “You’re not forgotten,” it seems to say; “I appreciate you.”
Taking time to acknowledge small kindnesses is a hallmark of noble character. It takes the place of the sweeping bow of years gone by, which demonstrated humility and respect. Our lives may find their way to the fast lane, but there’s always time for a small show of gratitude, even if it’s only in a smile or a wave. For the recipient, it’s an unexpected delight—like spotting a rainbow in the sky or seeing a shooting star. How precious and wonderful can be the simple, backward glance!
Program #3657