When God Sends Blessings In Disguise

When we went on our first family cruise a few years ago, we were seated at the perfect table in the dining room. We were right next to a big round window, and we loved it. It was out of the way, and we had a great view of the ocean.

Last year, as we were planning our second cruise, I was insistent that we get the same type of table. You know, because I am weird like that. Before we left for the cruise, Steve called and requested a window table. Unfortunately, we were told that reserving tables is not permitted prior to the cruise. And because he is the most awesome husband ever, Steve went directly to the dining room as soon as we boarded the ship to request a window table.

When he returned, he told us that while the manager was very kind, he could not promise a certain table assignment. The table we were assigned was not the same one we had before.  It was in the middle of the dining room, far from the secluded window tables. The manager said we needed to sit at that table the first night, and he would see if he could switch us the next day. That sounded good to me.

That first night we dressed for dinner and headed to the dining room. We were seated at a beautiful, round table in the middle of the room. I immediately liked the round table much better than the long one we had previously. But that is not what made our evening so very special. Our main server that first evening was a young man named Alan. He was the most kind, professional, friendly server ever. It was clear that he loved what he did, and wanted each person to have the best time possible. We had a wonderful experience that first night, and left feeling very happy.

The next day, we received a message that the manager of the dining room was unable to change our table. And you know, we were so very happy that he could not. We were happy knowing that we were to have such a kind and friendly young man take care of us the remainder of the week. Each night, as we got to know him better, we realized that Alan would become more than our favorite server on a cruise. We realized he would become a friend. And that is exactly what happened.

Before we left for dinner the last night of the cruise, Flynn made a card for Alan. She thanked him for everything, and wrote that she hoped that he could keep in touch. I was so proud her, but thought it not likely, as I knew the servers on the ship meet hundreds of people and most likely do not remember them from week to week.

I was wrong. We continue our friendship with Alan to this day. And we are friends not only with him, but also with his beautiful family in the Philippines. You think I would have learned by now to let things go, right? I should stop trying to control things, and let God handle them, even when I think I can take care of them on my own. Because sometimes, God sends us blessings in disguise. And this time, it was the blessing of a lifelong friendship with a wonderful family we otherwise would never have met. : )

New friends on the ship...

And long after we returned home.

We enjoy messaging with his beautiful family too. : )

We are so thankful that we did not get seated at the table we thought we wanted. And that God brought our families together. And for a friendship that will last a lifetime.