A Ginger Missionary Moment

I had an enjoyable experience today with a couple that has been coming to The Little Brick House for several months.  They are only in Cedar for a year or so and they love our place so we see them often.  They came through the line and ordered their usual half sandwich with a salad, blue cheese dressing.  Water is typically the beverage of choice but today Stephanie surprised me when she excitedly picked up a Ginger Brew.  She was raving over the selection.  The Ginger Brew happens to be a favorite of mine as well so I was excited to see a fan.  I completed their order and they went to sit though I think Stephanie went to find mom to discuss a few things. 

After a while I was walking through the store and saw them sitting at a table.  I wanted to see how Stephanie liked the Ginger Brew.  She loved it.  Her eyes were a little red and she was enjoying the snappy and strong ginger flavor in this particular brew.  She talked of being a big fan of Ginger Brew and was familiar with that particular brand that was made in Maine.  I told her about my love for Ginger Brew and how I grew to love it drinking Stoney's Ginger Beer in South Africa. 

"You've been to Africa?"  came her response.  She was very excited about that and it opened a discussion about my visit to South Africa and living there for two years as a missionary.  We had a nice conversation about that service and talked a little bit about how it is structured, how a missionary is called, how companions work, etc., etc.  We discussed the time that I was there and they were both fascinated that I was there for the election on Nelson Mandela.  They wanted to know if I had any memorabilia and so we discussed a few items that I have.  When we discussed the calls missionaries receive we got on to the topic of all of the Fontano boys and the various missions that were served. 

It was a very positive conversation and we enjoyed visiting.  It was nice to share a few missionary experiences and a little about the Church.  I hope that seeds were planted and that they gained from our time together.  I don't know that Ginger Beer would be my go to for starting a gospel conversation but heck, that stuff is pretty amazing so why not?    Perhaps I will be able to continue our gospel conversation on their next visit, over a tasty brew.