Now you all know that I have the gift of gab! Well, I also have the gift of listen –if there is such a thing! Seriously, I do. Talk to anyone who knows me well and they will tell you that people spill their guts around me. Not sure why but I count it all joy! I have had so many fabulous conversations with folks over the years—from the woman truck driver who invited me into her cab to see her litter of kittens (I am NOT kidding!!!) to the guy who I befriended who got shot in the throat (hence his nickname Harry with the Hole in His Neck) I have had more experiences with people telling me their life stories than most people do. And I think that is awesome! I really need to write more of them down.

Friday I took Chris to the eye doctor—we had a pretty long wait so of course a lot of people came and went. I mean a lot of people. I think I saw half of the population of Mason City and the surrounding area in the time I sat there. First there was the long haul truck driver—didn’t see his kids much when they were growing up but sure does enjoy those grandkids now! Then there was the poor lady who had walked into a door at 2 in the morning and had 2 black eyes and some fractured facial bones. Ouch. Then there was the couple from a neighboring small town —farmers—who came into the big city for their yearly eye exam. I got the whole story from each of them and while I was happy to share their lives I wonder what it is about me that encourages people to spill their guts? I mean really —I have had people tell me really intimate things about their lives with no urging from me. I won’t go into those here but one in particular comes in mind for a prayer request for a particular male body part…..

I guess part of Friday’s experience was because it is the Midwest. People do tend to be friendlier and more wiling to have a conversation. That is a good thing. I have not experienced it as much here up until lately and I think it was just me–not really putting myself out there. Well, now I am! I am getting involved—people know me a bit better and I am in the community a little bit more. I fought it for a long time—because I was hopeful that we would sell the house quickly and move on. Well…..it has been a long winter and still continues (though the sun is out today) and I have changed my attitude a bit. Thank goodness. I needed an attitude adjustment! I am the first to admit that. Anyway, hope the trend continues–that people continue to open up to me and chat. I love being part of the story!