"The American Express Card" by Neal Murphy

December 27, 2019 - In 1967 I was employed by the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company when living in Houston, Texas. Although it was a very large company, it was bought out by the American Express Company. Soon thereafter all we employees were presented with an American Express credit card. I had always wanted one of these cards, but they were expensive to purchase. Now, I had one for free. I have carried and used it since that day in 1969.

Now, fast forward to a few days ago here in the year 2019. I happen to notice a package placed near my front door. I was surprised as I had not ordered anything of late. I looked at the return address and it read, “American Express”. “Wow, what could I be getting from that company?”, I wondered. I took the shoe box sized package inside and placed it on the kitchen table. Soon I would find out.

My wife watched as I opened the box with anticipation. What would American Express Company be sending me in that box? Inside the box was another one, blue in color with the words “Tiffany” on the top. I recognized that name as a rather exclusive company. My hands were shaking just a little bit as I took off the white ribbon wrapped around the blue box.

Finally the contents came into view. There were two of them obviously make of high quality crystal. They were approximately ten inches tall, with long thin stems. I held one of them up to the light to examine it. “Wow, this is expensive stuff”, I opined. They were very beautiful.

Enclosed was a card from American Express. I read it and learned that I was being presented this gift because I have been a card-holder for fifty years without interruption. I was shocked that they would take notice of such a thing. I looked at my card, and sure enough it showed that I had been a holder since 1969. Needless to say I was a little shocked, but also pleased.

Now, I don’t know what to do with two, tall, expensive wine glasses. We do not drink wine and have little use for them. So, my wife tells me that she will use them as a decoration on a shelf. Thanks, American Express for the kind thought. The old saying, “It’s the thought that counts” applies here.

I have a feeling that if should I be late in paying a bill to them, the late penalty will still apply to their long-time customer.