Remover of Obstacles

While reading Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love, I became intrigued by the symbolism of the Hindu God Ganesh. So, last summer in D.C., I was elated when I found this wooden statue in a little store near our hotel. The storeowner was a kind man with peaceful eyes and a gentle heart. He inquired about my interest in Ganesh and I told him that I found the symbolism and message behind this Hindu God to be both interesting and inspirational. He paused, handed me a pencil and paper and asked me to write down a message: 

Peace 

Prosperity 

Harmony 

Wisdom 

Obstacle remover 

Good luck 

And then he paused one more time before saying, "The last part of Ganesh's blessing is of most importance to you. Good health."

I looked at him with tear-filled eyes and could only mutter a simple "thank you." He smiled, handed me the box he had put the statue in, and then turned to the next customer with a "May I help you?" I quietly left the store, but will never forget that a man who knew nothing about me, taught me that no matter the race, religion or culture, humanity encompasses all. 

I hope to become like the kind shop owner who shares his love with each person who enters his door.