Tuesday, November 14, 2006

NBFs

My husband and friends tease me, because everywhere I go I make a new best friend (NBF). It is common place for me to walk into Starbucks, Peet's, the grocery store, wherever, and come back out with a NBF. People are fascinating, don't you think? Everyone has a story, and most would love to share it with someone.

Yesterday I was at the store bying a ream of paper. The guy behind me in line says, "So, you gonna print out your novel on that and make a lot of money?"

"Yes! As a matter of fact, I am. But it's not a novel I'm writing, it's non-fiction."

"Oh yea? What's YOURS?"

"Mine is memoir."

"Well, MINE is blah, blah, blah, blah, yadda, yadda, yadda..."

I'd still be standing there now if he'd had his way.

While on my get-away with my husband, I ducked into a crowded coffee shop to grab the essential 1:00 PM latte, and he waited outside for me. I was in there forever, and while it WAS crowded, I was still in there forever. When I came out with my latte and a funny looking napkin, he said, "So, what were you doing in there so long, talking to your NBF?"

"Yes! "

This NBF was named Mark. Mark is 85, plus, immaculately dresssed, tie, sweater vest, slacks, polished shoes, a hat resting on the table. He kept making eye contact with me while I stood in line, and then just before I walked out, he approached me and said, "Do you mind if I tell you a story? It's a short story."

"Great! Tell me a story!"

He put his gnarled hand on my shoulder, looked at me with his soul-filled eyes and said, "May the saddest days of your future... Be no worse than the happiest days of your past!"

"I just thought you'd enjoy that, " Mark said. "I wrote it down for you on this napkin. It's Irish. Have a great day."

Well, Mark, I did have a great day, and I still have that napkin. It's pinned to my bulletin board next to my desk where I write. I plan to live out that Irish blessing, fully. Full of love, period. Full of peace. Full of compassion. Fully caffeinated.

9 comments:

Jenny said...

Aw, I love these stories. That's so cute that the old man picked you out to share his story.

Anonymous said...

A testament to the fact that you project an openness that others recognize. They feel like they can trust you with their stories. What a fantastic thing for you to give the world, Carrie! I felt it when I met you, too.

Jerri said...

Wearing the famous shirt or not, you embody love (.)

No wonder others are anxious to be close to you, talk with you, share a few moments.

love.

Michelle O'Neil said...

The Irish are good people, no?

Of course he loved you?

What's not to love? Period.

Ask Me Anything said...

awesome post!

More.

Suzy said...

Oh Oh, are you taking this magic on the road with you????

Jess said...

That's a great story. Very sweet.

Of course it all makes sense.

Your NBN.

holly said...

beautiful happy story, beautiful happy you.
love it.
love.

Anonymous said...

So true, Carrie, everybody has a story, but to tell it, you need the right time and especially the right ears....