The Nice Thing About Strangers
Creative Non-Fiction Short Stories. :) Travel, Oldsters, Love, and Compassion.
Mrs. P
Today I went to an assisted living home to visit my first grade teacher. We reunited after over 30 years. The facility is in a lovely location with views of the mountains, and everyone working or living there seemed to be smiling. It’s precisely where the elderly should be settled, if they cannot remain in their home. I’m feeling fairly certain that if I ever settle in myself, I’d love to volunteer there.
I remember Mrs.P from those early days when I was young and so nervous around my classmates. When I was too scared to eat lunch in the cafeteria–a fear I still have today, to be honest–she let me sit with her in the classroom. I realize now that her lunch break should have been a respite from a room full of six-year-olds. Yet, she didn’t think of herself, she thought of me. She extended great kindness to that little Paige, and today I was able to express a bit of my gratitude. She helped me fall for books. She encouraged me to keep reading, and today she encouraged me to keep writing.
We smiled and cried and laughed until we disturbed the neighbors. It was a singular delight to share that time with her, and to talk with her about art, Greek architecture, and Turkish men.
Sometimes life is just so incredibly beautiful. I am grateful for this as well.
–Colorado
I still smile like that for photos. 🙂
The Nice Thing About Strangers 
What a darling picture! Love your hair and smile!
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Thank you, Judie! There’s about a 10 year span where I won’t share photos, but those are the big glasses big hair years. 🙂 This was so early, I thought it would be safe.
Thank you–hugs back!
Paige
OMG you were so cute. And still are!! I looked up my grade three teacher a few years ago. She made such a difference in my life too. She encouraged me to read, write and travel. I just had to thank her. She is still writing herself and we had a great chat. I’m glad to hear your teacher is in a good place.
Darlene, thanks! Lol. So happy about school, of course. It is a gift to be able to thank those who lit up our youth. 🙂
Have a nice weekend, dear Darlene–
Paige