Large heart garbage collector

He is one of those fleeting meetings that take up in our hearts as an echo of the Gospel. Professor of mathematics, I have traveled for thirty years, almost always by bike – whether it is selling or railing – the two kilometers that separate the house from my high school. Throughout my various morning routes, I met or frequently exceeded household waste and garbage dumpster.

As for that forced me to slow down, even to set foot on the ground so as not to disturb their work, it was an opportunity to greet us, kindly, but mechanically enough for my part. At the end of my career, and following various heart alerts, I tried to go on foot as often as possible, to apply the advice received in cardiological rehabilitation, alternating different forms of physical activity.

That morning, four years ago, while I was walking, I came across a parking lot truck and two ripening agents in action: recovery of blue bins pulled on rolls, raised and relieved in the lair of the bucket and replaces in a rhythmic and efficient ballet. The time of maneuver, I wait on the sidewalk, between two garbage cans. We exchange the “Hello!” “Usual, but this time one of the two men continues:” Are you not by bike today? ” ».

Amazing ! I stay nailed on site, dazzled to discover that he had recognized me. The reciprocal was nonexistent of course. How could this man-whom I thought to be grabbed by his work-could he spot my cycling wanderings? In front of my astonishment – “Do you remember me?!” – And while, climbed on a step he already walked away in the snoring of the engine, he launched me quickly: “I notice people. »»

By continuing my way, the teaching of Jesus came to me in the samaritan parable (LC 10, 29-37). In response to the Pharisee who asks him “and who is my neighbor?” Jesus reverses the perspective. It is the Samaritan, a foreigner, who is the next man of the half -dead man found on his way. That day, I recognized my neighbor in this unknown garbage man who had been attentive to me. In my prayer, I contemplated his face and for him, I gave thanks.