Inspired
When I’m out of town I often take my computer to a local restaurant that has wireless internet. I’ll get a cup of coffee and sit there as I peruse the e-mails and write a little.
Wednesday was no exception. This time, however, my experience was different.
I had been sitting at the table for about ten minutes when a lady, who appeared to be about my same age, came in and sat a few seats down from me. Since the restaurant was nearly empty, I wondered why she chose to sit so close but exchanged a smile and “good morning” and went on about my business. I could tell she was busily concentrating on writing something but, not wanted to be nosy, I did not look at her directly. I knew she was concentrating on her work.
After about 15 minutes we shared a few words of encouragement until an older gentleman with while hair approached her and they started a conversation. I could tell she was happy to see him. It was obvious this was their regular meeting place and they got down to business quickly.
It didn’t take long to realize what they were doing. I couldn’t help but overhear that he was teaching her how to write. I glanced over to see that her paper was the kind of writing paper that students use as they are learning to write in school.
He was very carefully teaching her each letter and using just the right combination of creative descriptions and humor to encourage her and compliment her successes. I found myself thinking that I would have liked to have a teacher like that when I was learning in school.
I was in awe by these two. One was using his skills to teach writing. The other, whose accent told me she probably was of Jamaican descent, was learning rapidly. You could tell she was determined. Before too long, I thought, she would be writing as well as the rest of us.
I felt tears welling up in my eyes as I stared at the computer. I was truly touched by this encounter.
As I finished my e-mails and prepared to leave, I knew I could not simply get up and go. I wanted to tell her how proud of her I was and encourage her to keep up the good work. I wanted to thank the man for sharing his gift of teaching with her. I also wanted to be mindful that I did not embarrass her in anything I might say.
I quietly took out two business cards and wrote my address on the back of them. On one of them, I shared a website address as I knew I was going to write about them. I continued sitting there for a few minutes to decide what I wanted to say. I finally got up to speak.
“I couldn’t help but overhear what you are doing.” I said. “You’ve touched me this morning. I’m so proud of both of you.”
“I’ve written a book I think you two might enjoy. I’d like to ask you to do something,” I said as I looked at her.
“Write me and tell me who you are. I’d like to send you both a copy of my book and I’ll make sure to sign it just for you.” I explained.
After a few more words and smiles, we parted ways.
I continued to have those folks on my mind throughout the day. I shared the story with some friends and wanted to also share it with you today.
My wish for you today: That you will look for inspiration around you and celebrate it. See it in the regular places and also celebrate those times when you see inspiration in unusual places. If possible, tell the people they’ve inspired you and made your day a better one because of their actions. You, too, may be very surprised by what you see.
~Joellen