Yes, I’ve fallen a day behind. Yesterday is gone and today is approaching noon and the sun will lower itself in the sky for evening to take the stage. I cannot imagine how I lost the day. This may the last time – the final moment in my conscious existence – that I mention “falling behind.” I pledge to avoid even looking in that direction… behind. Oh, of course I’ll fall behind again. But I’ve retired the harping chorus. They’ve wanted a new assignment anyway.
No need to berate oneself or to enter a confessional box where the listener is probably dozing off.
At this time yesterday, I was driving an acquaintance to a PEN Women’s holiday gathering. I met this gal in my local exercise class. More of a stretch to remain stretchable session 3 times a week. Hearing pop music from the 60’s and nearby decades is almost the best part – particularly on ‘triple threat’ Wednesday. If a muscle is stretched while humming a cute song it just elongates better.
The festivities were held at a member’s home in Rockledge. My stretching friend had nicely invited me to attend. Perhaps I would like to join the local chapter of PEN (National League of PEN Women – creative women’s group). I’d only heard of the group. I’m not much of a group joiner.
Well, my trusty cellphone app, Waze, provided turn-by-turn navigation which allowed my passenger to fill me in on fascinating periods of her life. She is both mystery novel writer and watercolorist. Quite a gal.
I can barely remember how we got there but suddenly Waze announced that we’d arrived at our destination.
In times past, making such a drive, being at a gathering with unknown people, having to stay as long as the “friend” wanted – would’ve felt like being on a Rocky Ledge. Less so this time. Micro-inch by micro-inch I am comfortable with the predicament. Solitude may be preferred but chit-chat is an amusing game of social Tiddlywinks.
And to practice listening with attentive interest is good exercise in being human.
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This artwork is by Lauri Burke. See her bio page under ‘artists’ on the www.origamipoems.com site.