The Nice Thing About Strangers
Creative Non-Fiction Short Stories. :) Travel, Oldsters, Love, and Compassion.
To The Happy Couple
He is one single year old, toddling freely around the wedding during the toasts. He stops by a rather good audience member and distracts her. She acknowledges him politely, seeks for his parents, shifts under his stare. His brown eyes stay locked on her face. He wears a button-up shirt, boots, a brown fauxhawk. When she reaches her hand down to him, he gasps her finger. He holds it tight and stands very still.
She murmurs to him, away from the congratulations on the microphone. She smiles. He gazes without a sound. She is of the age where people feel pity if you seem to enjoy children, but don’t yet have children. In this vein, she pushes her lips into a more subdued smile. She tries to temper her delight. And peers around to see if anyone else sees what sees–this silent little cherub who holds her in his sights.
–Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Bamberg, Germany
The Nice Thing About Strangers 
That leg sticking out of the mural is too funny…. and you a very astute people watcher. I enjoy your observations.
I thought that leg photo would come in handy one day! I took it almost 5 years ago, so I’m glad a cherub finally arrived!
Thank you for the compliment. People watching is an excellent way to pass the time.
Each day I strive to be as forthright as my son (11 months old). Observing him when looks as you, you can see how he analyzes every movement, every action that is made; learning and associating the world. To watch him grow and learn is beyond words.
Keith, that’s lovely! I agree that we can learn so much from the watchful little ones. My niece sees things in such a pure and uncomplicated way. What a gift for you to experience that firsthand.
Toodlers are such a joy………………well I think so anyway…………..
This little guy was super cute!!
This was a unique and caring way to describe the painting! (photo)
Oh, that’s sweet. It’s not a description of the photo. Often my photos and stories are a mismatch. But that actually gives me a great idea! Thanks! 😀