...and yet it's still possible to surprise me. Walking up the street at morning rush hour, surrounded by commuters hurrying to work, I passed signs with arrows: Ashes. Around the corner, the United Methodist Church. Okay, I thought, the signs were reminding the faithful it's Ash Wednesday, come in and get your ashes.

Sort of, but not quite.

In front of the church, a table with free coffee, and the priest in his vestments. Step up, slug down some caffeine, get your ashes, go on your way. McAshes. No need to enter the church at all. And here's the thing: lots of people did get ashes who obviously weren't headed to church, probably thought they'd skip it this year, late for work, too much to do...

Yes, of course I stood and watched. The priest is beaming, the handyman-assistant is beaming. I'm beaming. I love New York.


waiting for customers



bless you (and your little dog, too)