Today at the grocery store I broke the rules.

I had 12 items in the 10 items or less line.

15 if you count bananas individually.

I confessed to the cashier after she began scanning my groceries.

“I broke your rule on purpose,” I confessed.

“What’s that, Honey?” she responded with eyes raised.

I love when I am called Honey.

It’s way better than being called buddy or sir.

“I have 12 items. Your sign says 10 items or less.”

“But you got a smile on your face, Honey. So that cancels out the other two. You’re okay.”

I believed her, but wanted to hear her say it again.

“I am?”

“Yes, Honey. You’re okay.”

Sometimes I just need the reminder.

And sometimes I just need to break the rules.

About the Author

Tanner Olson is an author, poet, speaker, and podcaster living in Nashville, Tennessee.

He is the author of I’m All Over the Place, As You Go, Walk A Little Slower, and Continue: Poems and Prayers of Hope.

You can find Tanner Olson’s books on Amazon.

His podcast is The Walk A Little Slower Podcast with Tanner Olson and can be found wherever you listen to podcasts.

Tanner Olson travels around the country sharing poetry, telling stories, and delivering messages of hope.

You can follow Tanner Olson on Instagram (@writtentospeak) and Facebook where you’ll daily find encouraging words of faith and hope.