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i'm glad i know you

After taking a writing hiatus this summer, it's time to be back. Just like I'm ready for a change of seasons, I'm also ready for a change in mindset and habits.

 Summer brings camping and picnicking, farming and kayaking. I want to be outside every possible waking moment. My journals collected a lot of dust. And my thoughts drifted over how to combat aphids with ladybugs instead of putting ink to paper.

 Now that I'm sitting with a long-sleeved t-shirt on, but still a pair of cut-offs, I'm ready to tap out some observations, introspections, quips, quirks and everyday stories. Thanks for reading. Thanks for listening to part of my life.


Around the corner, and a few houses down, live two little boys. They like playing barefoot, no matter the weather. Curiosity is ingrained in them, and Bella always gets lots of love when we walk by.

One recent morning I was told they were going to the river to climb over big gray rocks and look for crayfish and snakes. The younger brother loves snakes and was hoping to find ten, but probably two.

As Bella and I were saying goodbye, the oldest said, "I'm glad I know you." I walked on with a smile on my face and a warm spot in my soul.

How often do we tell people we're glad to know them? As a matter of fact, I'm not sure anyone has ever said it quite like that to me.

I so appreciate the honesty and vulnerability of kids. They're not afraid to say things like that or call someone they just met their friend. It's kind of scary to put yourself out there like that. As adults, we choose not to; it's safer that way.

One of my biggest pet peeves is people using and abusing others, pulling rank and wearing airs of  "I'm better than you." It's just not true. I'd rather be known for kindness and treating others well.

As I thought about his statement, I wondered what it was about me that made him glad. Is it because I stop and listen, or because they really like Bella? I don't know. What I do know is the way we treat people really matters. Do we pay attention, listen, show kindness, ask questions, show respect, let them pet the dog?

His little passing statement made a big impact on me. And, I'm going to spread that sentiment around. You see, there are  people who would like to know that knowing them makes me, or someone else, glad.

Missy



If you have been mildly amused, challenged or inspired by what you have read, please pass on my blog to a friend, colleague, family member or even random acquaintance


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