Seems like a story that would run in any city at anytime. All cities have those prominent figures that everyone knows their faults and triumphs and at a time of loss would come together to mourn the loss of an extraordinary life.
This story was different. This story spoke with new feeling because the community was comprised of a diverse collection of business and political professionals as well as the family of a former illegal immigrant from El Salvador. The community pushed the boundaries of expectation and showed that human compassion and relationships form across stature, background, breed and social position.
This story is different because of the man. The day that Carlos Guardado did not show up for work startled many, brought tears from others and left an attorney at a loss for words. Mr. Guardado had been important in the lives of many because he was a kind and friendly person that others looked forward to including in their day. Mr. Guardado wasn't an elected official or likely to be invited to or crash the President's party. Mr. Guardado served coffee, snacks and burritos from his cart at Farragut Square with a side of friendship. At the age of only 48, he touched the people he crossed paths with to the point of audible gasps, shock and tears when his path would no longer cross theirs.
He cared. They cared. Basic human decency at its best. They also cared enough to collect $12,000 for a trust fund for Mr. Guardado's children.
