Tissues – “life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating” – O.Henry

This line from “The Gift of the Magi” by O.Henry reflects the notion that we run a gamut of emotions in life. O. Henry stated that we find ourselves in the in-between phase most of the time, somewhere between a sob and a smile. In my life I believe there are a lot more smiles than sobs, but on occasion, just like anyone else, the tears come more easily than the smiles. Fortunately for myself (and everyone else) there are these terrific things called tissues. They pop right up when you need them (most of the time) and wipe, catch, dry, and/or protect us from the fluids that flow from our emotions.

I know Kleenexes are not the cure for everything but they sure can soften the blow of a tumultuous moment or fix the mascara marks of a tear-inducing laugh. Think about it! How many times have you in your life offered or asked for a tissue?

My dad always keeps a handkerchief in his pocket. He is not man who tends to make a big fuss about things and always knows what tools he needs to fix a problem. This is a great testament to just how handy and helpful it is to have something there to catch life as it falls from our faces.

I know it might sound crazy but today be thankful for a time when you had a tissue (or a handkerchief) to snag those salty signs left from sniffles and smiles. Be grateful for comfort found in simple things.

By: Melanie A. Peters