In Search of a Story

Years ago, while working at University Campus Ministry, the director, Jack came to me to share a story. He was preparing for his sermon on sunday, and had checked out a book of stories. This one was of a little girl, who wanted balloons for her birthday. They made her so happy, that her parents did not have the heart to take them away from her.
I have been looking for that story for over 15 years now, and have not been able to find it. Weeks later I asked Jack about the story - and he did not remember what I was talking about.
The real story was that I needed to hear that story. Life was horrible for me, I was very unhappy and tense. As Jack came up to my desk to talk, I didnt want to be bothered with him. I thought it was so lame that he needed to share this corny story with me. I could not share in hs joy of telling the story. It seems that he had been looking for the story for a while, and was overjoyed to have finally found it. Or maybe he just knew that I needed to hear a story about joy.
The real story of that day is the care that he showed me at a time when I was not able to return the sentiment. I really did feel better after that time with him. It really was a cute story.
As a story preacher, I always love a good story. I have been looking for that story for years, i have sometimes come close, but it wasnt quite that story. But I will carry the joy of someone who loves me in my heart forever.