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Checkout I was in a very slow moving line at the grocery store check out counter. The check-out lady was obviously upset and the people in line were showing their impatience. I sensed that her physical condition and demeanor did not help. She was quite a bit overweight and her clothes were very old and soiled. She had what appeared to be a permanent frown on her face.   No insulting words were exchanged—but they may as well have—the customers’ body language said it all. When my turn came, I wanted her to see my smile and sense my awareness of her difficulties—but she wouldn’t let her eyes meet mine. Her only words were, “I am having a bad bad day.”   Jesus has always taken me as I am. His arms are always spread wide saying, “Come onto Me.” The morning comes- Another day. No reason to smile- All days are grey.   No hugs or kisses Or “I love you.” It’s the same old clothes ’Round a waistline that grew.   She gets on the bus All the people look away. Their body language says, “Don’t sit with me today.”   She arrives at work- No warm smiles. She punches in For another day of trials.   She hates her job. The customers complain. Her headache sets in- Every day is the same.   Another whole day With no smile or warm glance. Love, joy and happiness- In her life?-Not a chance.   Who will come And be her friend? Can anyone help So this cycle will end?   I have a friend Who loves the outcast; With arms open wide And a love that does last.   He accepted me Just as I am; So I can accept others And be a true friend.   Who will smile When she may not smile back? Who will care When appreciation will lack?   He did it for me So I can do it for her. She’s God’s beautiful daughter Needing a love that is sure. poem by Dean Robinson e-mail him at drobinson@sebesta.com