Conversations with Myself

Friday

28

November 2014

I am going to miss strangers.

Written by , Posted in My Thoughts, Comments: 3

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Happy Friday!

There are people who have played a major part in helping us settle in France.  I will be forever grateful for those individuals.  Since I like to keep things light on Fridays, this post is not about people who have dined with us, gave us calls to make sure we are ok and took time to show us town .  Its about total strangers who have made me feel a part of things or strangers who left little footprints in my heart.

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Every evening when I cross Cher River up the bridge on my way to fetch Muli from school, looking down at the banks of the river I most often see same people.  The elderly lady who walks her small dog.  It is obvious that this lady has retired many years back.  Her attire is always on point.  She wears shoes that match her jacket, ALWAYS.  I am going to miss her.

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Still on the river bank, I am going to miss elderly couple that take evening walk same time, everyday.  They always, always walk holding hands.  I have passed closer to them several times.  It is the silent between them that makes their relationship to stand out.   They find a safe and affirming space in silence between them, a gift of trust and peace.  I am going to miss a display of this kind of love.

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What about the lady at the gym who calls me by name from the day I step my feet in the gym.  The sound of someone calling my name has never sounded sweeter than at this moment in my life when I am always surrounded by strangers..

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The Boulanger who knows Mulis favourite pastry.  Every time I get into her boulangerie, she hold Muli by hand and let her choose her favourite.  She even went a mile and gave us a bunch of pastries to taste.  I will miss her.

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The cleaner in our complex.  When ever this guy catches a glimpse of me on a bike he quickly opens the gate for me.  How neat is that?.

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And finally, the lady that bikes in all seasons.  In summer days, foggy days, cold days and rainy days the lady is on her bike.  She is always on heels, cycling with a speed of light like cycling ladies in Amsterdam.  This day she took a breather to appreciate and take pictures of sunset and flock of birds.

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I am going to weep uncontrollably when the day comes for us to go back to SA.  You have been warned!

Take care,
Nez