Happy Valentine's?

My wife, kids and I went out for Valentine’s Day sushi tonight (it’s the same sushi, you just need to wait an hour for it).  When we left, I noticed a kid, probably 17 or 18 standing in the crowd of people waiting for a table.  He held two roses and a small, heart-shaped box of chocolates.  He stood out in the crowd because he was the only person holding something besides a phone and because he was alone.  His body language made clear something it looked like he didn’t want to share:  He was sad and anxious.  Now I suppose he could have been worried about any number of things.  But standing there alone, with those gifts, on this night?   I think he was worried about being stood up.

I felt that kid’s anguish and his insecurity.  I remember being that kid.  I wanted to go up and put my hand on his shoulder and say, “You’re a man standing here amongst kids.  You don't know it, but you're brave.  I hope your night turns out the way you want it to.  But it’s only one night.  And life is a fucking marathon, not a sprint.  Keep showing up with flowers and chocolates.  Eventually you’ll find a woman who wouldn’t stand you up for George Clooney.”