Put a smile on...

I saw a homeless man today while I was waiting for the number three bus on Fifth Street here in Calgary. He appeared happier than most street people probably because he had a load of fresh gear. Not only did he have a nice new shiny black garbage nearly full of recyclables, but he also had two full sized hiking bags. One of these bags had "Outdoor Fun" embroidered on its face and I can honestly say that was the first thing that came to mind when he appeared out of the shadows. I wanted to ask him what he had in the bags but I obviously didn't.

"Hey there buddy! You seem to be doing alright for yourself. When I moved up to Calgary a few months back I took three bags of luggage with me. And you have two bags. Did you just move here as well sir?"

After I had this imaginary conversation, the man got down to business and started digging in the surrounding trash cans. Here in Calgary, a lot of the trash cans have a metal cover which is practically air tight. Their only purpose these covers could serve is to keep food fresh for people like my double baggin' friend here. There ain't no raccoons or squirrels downtown is there? Maybe there is but I haven’t seen any.

So after searching three garbage cans and finding nothing but a few recyclables, the man begrudgingly strutted to the fourth and final treasure hole, hoping it wasn't already plundered.

As he opened up the metal lid, I watched his already happy demeanour transform into a carriage of joy. He reached in, carefully removing any obstruction, and steadily guided his find out of the forgotten refuge.

In his hand he held a McDonald's Happy Meal, box and all! Inside this treasure chest was one third of a cheeseburger and half an order small fries.

What better way to enjoy some outdoor fun than eating a free Happy Meal in the city sun. I can't think of better way to start my morning.

But he wasn't the only one basking in his delightful meal, as I too must selfishly admit that as I was sitting there all I could think in my head was one simple phrase...



I'm lovin' it!