CassieIn the spotlight today is a beautiful friend of mine from work, named Ashlie, whose birthday is today.
The first time I met Ashlie, it was almost two years ago. It was my first shift closing at my new job at Starbucks by myself, and my first time working with Ashlie.
I started that shift a little nervously. I didn’t feel focused on customers or making drinks or any other part of my job but the harrowing list of tasks to complete at the end of the night. What if I forget something important? What if I spill all the espresso beans? What if I take forever, and the supervisor gets mad?
It’s funny to think of those worries now, because closing is the shift I work most, and enjoy most– and I think a lot of that initially started with Ashlie. Who sensed my stress, but didn’t make any show of it, and took her time to get to know me. When she left, Ashlie nonchalantly handed me a piece of paper she’d clearly been adding to all throughout her shift, including a thorough walkthrough of all the closing duties I would be responsible for.
She didn’t care for a “thank-you” or a big show of her kindness. Thoughtfulness was just her way.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4
Since that day, Ashlie’s selfless way of living has blessed and inspired my life. Despite trials of her own, battles she’s faced, and any struggle that comes her way, her soul puts others first, and loves everyone with equal treatment and a spunky, funny, and giggly soul.
Ashlie and our dear friend Aneta showed up at my dance recital this year, impromptu, with flowers and showers of kindness.
She thoughtfully blessed me with a homemade Christmas gift that clearly took time, effort, and love.
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When she knows I’m taking the bus home, she would literally drag me by my hands and feet into her car for a ride home if I tried to get on the bus.
She offered, impromptu, to take photos to use for this blog, to no benefit of her own.
She goes out of her way each day for our Starbucks customers and co-workers, silently, and without wanting appreciation.
Well, Ashlie, you’re getting it, because the way you live is an inspiration and light to those around you. I am so blessed to know you and to get to be a part of this special day celebrating your life! Thank-you for loving me and all those around you so exceptionally well. I hope and pray you feel my love, God’s love, and the love of so many others today.
And thank-you for blessing and believing in this blog. It only fits that you’re on it on your birthday.
