Unexpected Thank You

One of the many times I have been in the Dulles International Airport’s Customs waiting area this summer, I encountered something that I meant to share. I was waiting for a family member to come through the doors when I was privileged to witness something really incredible.

We, the other mass of folks and I, were anxiously watching as the doors that lead from Customs as they whooshed open. The returning travelers usually come out in small groups. It had been a few minutes and no one came though Customs. All of a sudden one passenger emerged from the doors and the entire waiting room took in a breath.

A lone soldier emerged from the doors not expecting anyone to greet him. He was in his fatigues and obviously just arrived from his duty. The crowd waiting did not miss a beat. Those of us sitting, stood. The rest of us stood still and began to clap in silence for a moment. The soldier was confused. He turned to look behind him to see who was deserving of the standing ovation. It was not until strangers approached him and thanked him that he realized we were welcoming him home.

I still get goose bumps thinking of this and I cannot describe a better reason to be proud.