Now you all know that I have the gift of gab! Well, I also have the gift of listen --if there is such a thing! Seriously, I do. Talk to anyone who knows me well and they will tell you that people spill their guts around me. Not sure why but I count it all joy! I have had so many fabulous conversations with folks over the years---from the woman truck driver who invited me into her cab to see her litter of kittens (I am NOT kidding!!!) to the guy who I befriended who got shot in the throat (hence his nickname Harry with the Hole in His Neck) I have had more experiences with people telling me their life stories than most people do. And I think that is awesome! I really need to write more of them down.
Friday I took Chris to the eye doctor---we had a pretty long wait so of course a lot of people came and went. I mean a lot of people. I think I saw half of the population of Mason City and the surrounding area in the time I sat there. First there was the long haul truck driver---didn't see his kids much when they were growing up but sure does enjoy those grandkids now! Then there was the poor lady who had walked into a door at 2 in the morning and had 2 black eyes and some fractured facial bones. Ouch. Then there was the couple from a neighboring small town ---farmers---who came into the big city for their yearly eye exam. I got the whole story from each of them and while I was happy to share their lives I wonder what it is about me that encourages people to spill their guts? I mean really ---I have had people tell me really intimate things about their lives with no urging from me. I won't go into those here but one in particular comes in mind for a prayer request for a particular male body part.....
I guess part of Friday's experience was because it is the Midwest. People do tend to be friendlier and more wiling to have a conversation. That is a good thing. I have not experienced it as much here up until lately and I think it was just me--not really putting myself out there. Well, now I am! I am getting involved---people know me a bit better and I am in the community a little bit more. I fought it for a long time---because I was hopeful that we would sell the house quickly and move on. Well.....it has been a long winter and still continues (though the sun is out today) and I have changed my attitude a bit. Thank goodness. I needed an attitude adjustment! I am the first to admit that. Anyway, hope the trend continues--that people continue to open up to me and chat. I love being part of the story!
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