Let me preface this by saying I am in no way religious and if you asked me my thoughts on religion I would say something along the lines of it’s great for people that use it but I don’t care for it all that much. 

But I think I met God today.

I was standing alone waiting for the 5 train to go back to the hotel after my first interview. A man approached me from my right and said in a deep voice, “You look sharp.” I thanked him and told him I just got out of an interview. He turned his head in curiosity and asked me a few questions about the process. We chatted as we waited for the train–sharing quick stories about how he served in the navy and had some experience out west in Oregon. He talked about his sons and I told him how I had met my Uncle for the first time who lives here out on the east coast. We both got off at Grand Central and walked up to the street. 

When we parted ways he gave me his card and shook my hand. He told me, “When young men like yourself get into any trouble at all the give me a call, but you’re not like most young people I work with.” He looked me in the eyes and said, “You’re going to get that job.” Now I don’t know what happened to me at this point but for some reason as I thanked him and walked away I got emotional. Maybe it was because of his sincerity, maybe it was because I could tell that he really believed in me, but I was choked up as I read the name on the card: Reverend Alfred R. Twyman Jr. 

I can’t literally share this experience with you and my post about it doesn’t do it justice. But know that this short 10 minute encounter was arguably the most important thing to happen to me on this trip. I can only imagine the stories and knowledge that this man has shared with others solely because of the kindness in his heart. It really made me understand that there are incredible people in the world, and many of them happen to live in New York.

Thank you Reverend, it was an honor to meet you.

-B