The shoes say a lot

On my last day at work, we burned my hospital shoes. They had seen a lot of wear over twenty-seven years with deliveries, operations, and hikes to the emergency room.  They went up nicely, having been soaked in lighter fluid for a couple of days.  

I haven't been back since.

A Sister missionary here finished up a couple of weeks ago, after serving faithfully for her 18 months.  I noticed the shoes, she smiled and said quietly, "Yes, they have seen some miles, and a ton of dust, rain, mud, and hills.  And a lot of experiences that I will not soon forget."

She hesitated, and placed them gently in the wastebasket.
Dave & Paula