Never Ever Dull
With every conversation, I always seem to end with "Never a dull moment"....our lives are rich, complex, and beautiful stories. Join me in laughing about everyday things and appreciating life-bumpy roads and all.
"Mighty hot outside, don't you think? You from around here?," came a southern drawl from the chair on my left I nodded and commented that I've lived here almost 3 years. Not wanting to strike up a conversation, I gave a quick smile and pretended I was distracted with something going on in the nail salon. I didn't wish to continue the dialogue because I had declared today a day of "no talking". During the week, I got slammed with some sickness that made my throat hurt, really hurt. Whispering was painful. After trying to manage my classroom full of 22 little people the last days of school, my voice had almost completely disappeared. I needed a day off from talking.(and taking care of all in my family who have been plagued lately-walking pneumonia, ear infection, pink eye, sinus infection....one big ol' petri dish of germs over here!)...so I looked around as I got my pedicure, totally glancing away from the older lady on my left. She continued chatting: "I've lived here 40 years so I guess you'd call this home for me. I have two sons and one granddaughter. But I hardly ever see them. They stay so busy. You know how that is." Her eyes framed by her red circle glasses looked back in my direction awaiting a response. Preferring to preserve my voice, I just said, "Yep, everyone stays busy." I looked back at my toes deep in the blue sudsy water. It was then I heard that same southern drawl speaking to the man massaging her feet: "No, I don't need a manicure. I came in earlier this week and got one. First time my nails have grown since my time with breast cancer." Awkward moment since the salon guy couldn't understand English. Her words hit me with a thud. I felt that yuck of selfishness in me. Here I was avoiding the lady beside me...but she obviously wanted a person to talk to. I caved. I started with a couple of questions. Those led to a delightful hour of sharing about our kids. As so often happens, we found our "common". We learned that both of our oldest children are in overseas ministry. Her oldest works in Kenya, mine in Haiti. We laughed and shared more and more. As she left me, she grabbed my hand and wouldn't let go, squeezing it tightly. Just one of those chance meetings? I truly don't think so. So, if you happen to run into a lady with red circled glass frames with beautifully painted fingernails and toenails, be sure you stop to chat. She's a gem, an absolute gem. .
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AuthorFun-loving mom to 4 kids and 1 big puppy. Fifth grade teacher of amazing little people who have never ending things to share with me. Love to discuss Jesus, diy projects, and life. Trying to keep it simple: Love Jesus, love people. Archives
December 2021
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