At a supermarket I frequently visit, there is a sign by one of the registers that reads: “This register is operated by a beginner. It has a freshness that veterans might not have.”

When I read it, I felt so charmed that I couldn’t help telling the cashier, “Whoever came up with this wording has wonderful taste.”

It reminded me of a memory from long ago. When we were visiting a place I truly loved, I casually mused aloud, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were a bench and a vending machine right here?”

To my surprise, my father actually went ahead and made both happen for me. And what made it even better was that he hung a handmade sign right in front of the vending machine that read, “Open for Business” (Akinai-chu).

A vending machine, yet labeled “Open for Business.” Through my father’s playful spirit and his sweet gesture of bringing my casual words to life, as well as that supermarket sign, I was reminded of how incredible it is that words and actions can touch our hearts in such delightful ways.

Words can hurt, but they can also warm someone’s soul and make a small flower of happiness bloom in everyday life. I want to keep cherishing and spinning words that touch the heart.

#WordsThatTouchTheHeart #PlayfulSpirit #SupermarketStories #DadMemories #EverydayMagic #WarmthOfWords #HeartToHeart