When water began to shoot out of the nozzles, lights underwater appear to animate the jet sprays. The various ranges of movement across the lake were unpredictable; some of the movements were continuous, dancing to the smooth passages of the rhythmic operetta, while other nozzles create symmetrical waterfalls. Still, other nozzles shoot water at a rapid pulse, reaching heights as high as 240 feet. The finale was something to behold. The nozzles reacted to the fortissimo of the operetta’s grand finale, shooting various breathtaking visions of water expressions that leave your nose wet and your soul breathless.
At the end of the show, I saw around me couples with newfound appreciation in their eyes, no doubt the show they had just seen had evoked a deep emotional feeling between them. I could think of nothing less than respect and trust. I was a little envious, somewhat nostalgic of my younger days married to the woman of my dreams. A smile formed on my face, the lyrics of the song still fresh on my memory. As I turned my back to the fountains, I sighed “Ah, L’amour” only to realize that I was greeted by a replica of the famous French landmark, the Eiffel Tower.
For the rest of the night, I went inside the casino, checking out the Italian shops. I couldn’t have felt more alone than if you put me at the center of a million people. Disheartened, I began the long trek back to my hotel room. I was walking up the crosswalk leading out of the Bellagio when, at the top of the steps, I was faced with a gentleman --- well, more like a homeless person --- planted sitting cross-legged at the top of the stairs. His demeanor and clothes made him look as if, although he appears homeless, he had been taking care of himself. He held up a sign made from a small square piece of raggedly cut cardboard and he held it up for the oncoming cross walkers to see. On the sign were scribbled the words:
“I won’t lie, I need beer”
Not only did this put a giant smile on my face, it also forced out a bellowed laugh that I think came from somewhere within me. I had not laughed like that in so long. I think it may have also been infectious that other people walking with me also bellowed out their hearty laughs.
Out of sheer enjoyment, and being taken aback at the honesty of the message, I turned back around, reached from my wallet, and gave the gentleman a twenty.
“God bless you, young man” he said.
As soon as I heard those words, I became more impressed. I have heard Las Vegas referred to as the “Sin City” and despite the reputation that this city has, I couldn’t help but be in awe that a beautiful flower could bloom in this seemingly uninhibited place.
I turned around to see a glow about the gentleman that made his smile seem genuinely thankful. I smiled back and an uncomfortable, burning feeling grew out of my sinuses to run down to my heart. “Did I just do something nice?” I thought to myself. I could have easily dismissed the thought and kept on walking. But frankly, I didn’t want to.
“You’re welcome” I said.
Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do. Ecclesiastes 9:7
“I won’t lie, I need beer”
Not only did this put a giant smile on my face, it also forced out a bellowed laugh that I think came from somewhere within me. I had not laughed like that in so long. I think it may have also been infectious that other people walking with me also bellowed out their hearty laughs.
Out of sheer enjoyment, and being taken aback at the honesty of the message, I turned back around, reached from my wallet, and gave the gentleman a twenty.
“God bless you, young man” he said.
As soon as I heard those words, I became more impressed. I have heard Las Vegas referred to as the “Sin City” and despite the reputation that this city has, I couldn’t help but be in awe that a beautiful flower could bloom in this seemingly uninhibited place.
I turned around to see a glow about the gentleman that made his smile seem genuinely thankful. I smiled back and an uncomfortable, burning feeling grew out of my sinuses to run down to my heart. “Did I just do something nice?” I thought to myself. I could have easily dismissed the thought and kept on walking. But frankly, I didn’t want to.
“You’re welcome” I said.
Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do. Ecclesiastes 9:7
2 comments:
If the Lord gave you such a lovely verse Noel...I don't think you went wrong, showing that poor man a little kindness!
As for the loveliness of that fountain..Noel even if you HADN'T of shown the picture your words flowed so freely in your description of that spectactular sight that my mind could not help but visualize the whole glorious scene!
The moving water with the under water lights.
Oh! It just would NOT have been the same without those lights!!
And my mind's ear could almost hear the soft music of the song of the fountain!
And those couples? How they would have admired you too as they looked at your beautiful breathless soul shining through!!
I know I would have...
This verse might be out of context, I know Noel but I love it so!
Rev.7:17..For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of water: and God shall wipe all tears from their eyes.
My cup is full and running over..
God bless you my dear friend.
Terry,
You always put a big smile on my face whenever I read your comments. Thank you.
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