So, I think somewhere I've gotten off track on my blogging. I need to jump back on.
I was at a client's office a few weeks ago. In talking with the owner, he was slowly handing the business over to a key member of his team. He was headed for retirement. I inquired about how he planned on spending his retirement. Traveling was his response. He explained that whenever he traveled, he stopped to take an interest in people. I picked up on this same quality in myself. Whenever I traveled, I enjoyed meeting the locals as much as seeing the sights. I talk to everyone.
I struggle to understand that when I'm back in my locale of Akron, I am so much more reserved. I've been pondering that question lately. There are days when I interact with people. But it is not consistent. I'm starting to wonder if it's because I perceive ill intentions. On too many occassions, I've said a greeting too someone and they've hit me up for money. The worst of all was at an inner city gas station. I don't get frustrated with people that often. This guy must have noticed my dockers and dress shirt and perceived that I have money to give. I told him that I was sorry I had nothing to give. Then, he proceeded to give me a lecture on how I didn't need all that money and that I can't take it with me when I die. This was slowly pissisng me off. I, finally, put the nozzle back on the pump and left. There was also the time that I was leaving the bank one pay day. I'm on a very tight budget. I had taken out enough money to hold me over for a couple of days. I was approached by a middle age woman who frantically explained that her car had broken down. She needed $10 dollars more in order to get the car towed and get to work. Her badge showed that she worked for Visiting Nurse Services. I felt sorry for her. I handed her all of the money I had. Well, she then proceeded to ask for a ride to her "car". It was 3 or 4 miles away from where we were, in a bad neighborhood. I couldn't fathom her walking for 3 or 4 miles and no one helping her. Well, the light bulb came on. I had just been scammed by a 50 year old drug addict. I have to admit, it was a creative story. I don't know that it was worth $10.00 though.
So, I've been making it a point lately to interact with people like I were on vacation. I'm very selective these days to avoid situations like the ones mentioned above. I've met some interesting people. Everyone has a story to tell. I love hearing these stories.
Well, today is a vacation day from work. I'm out to hear some great stories.
