A Stranger's Story - Day 7

I see you now and then.

    Normally when I'm working in the cafe on a Wednesday night. Yet I always seem to forget your name, and I really wish I could remember.

I like you, I really do. You're always so kind. And you like your coffee drenched in loads of caramel syrup.

I really like caramel, too. I guess that means we have something in common.

Today was pretty normal. You came up to the counter as do all other customers. Well, once in a while some first-timers go to the "Pick Up" side. Then we kindly direct them to the correct counter. Sometimes we roll our eyes. That's not very nice, but it happens.

  Anyways.

You came to the correct counter and ordered your usual. But rather than walking over to the other side to pick up your drink, you stopped right in front of me. You rested your chin on the high counter top and watched me pour sugary substances into a paper cup.

At first I didn't notice you, but when I looked up.... I smiled.

I expected you to return the facial gesture like usual, and you did. But it wasn't genuine.

                    It was forced.

I asked you how you were doing. You just looked down and shook your head.

I knew you've been ill for quite some time. So I thought perhaps you just weren't feeling well.

                 

                     And then you started to cry.



   It took me off guard. But I followed my impulse.

I set down everything in my hands and ran out from behind the counter. Honestly, I disregarded the line of drinks I was working on. Perhaps I frustrated the others working by just randomly leaving. But it was all so worth it.

So I came to you and I hugged you.

There I was, in the middle of a crowd of people awaiting caffeinated beverages, holding an older lady while she cried.

When you released your embrace, you told me you had just found out your grandson had died. That's all you said. And you looked into my eyes with a look of "why?".

I had nothing to say that could heal the pain... such a fresh wound, still bleeding and throbbing. It wasn't time for a bandage yet.

My heart nearly stopped and tears began to well up in my own eyes. So I did what I could, and I asked if I could just pray for you.

I prayed that God would bring you comfort, and help you through this difficult time. As much as I believe that He will, it still tore me up inside to see you go through this.

I'm so sorry.

I really wish I could remember your name.

A Stranger's Story - Day 6

You...are so jolly.

There is so much to Soak in, so many things to look at in a place like this. Rows of booths all filled to the brim with products, brochures and frilly looking chocolates. Table after table full of information for each and every bride to be. Eager salesmen and women standing ready to answer your questions - all with the hope of landing some clients.

"You there. Yea, you look like you could use a nice honeymoon trip?"

"No. I'm not getting married."

"Hey there, have you set a date yet?!"

"Uh, no, I'm not getting married"

"Oh, honey, have you found your dress for the special day? I have the perfect one for you!"

"Oh, no thank you. I'm not getting married...."

Oh, what a terrible place for a young, unengaged blonde to be. I honestly just enjoyed looking at all the pretty stuff I seemed to be swimming in. And day-dreaming of course. Lots and lots of day-dreaming.

Goodness, if I've learned one thing from this eventful day: weddings are WAY too much work.

As I'm wandering around without any marital intentions, I hear something.

Something happy.

It's you. And your loud, joyful voice.

To be entirely honest, you remind me of a skinny Santa Claus. But not the creepy kind... Just happy.

You own a video business used for weddings. "Capturing the most special moments of your life."

You had a few screens set up on a table. I was under the impression that they were merely running a slide show. But ohhhh no, you quickly informed me that it was a video...with sound.

Apparently the event didn't allow for individual booths to have their own "sound-making devices". So you, mr. Smarty Pants, had the grand idea to have head phones available.

So I pondered to myself if I would actually take the time to listen to your "capturing-special-moments-video".

And then you did it. You offered me a dollar.

"In fact, I'll give you a dollar to watch my video. Here! Here, take a dollar. And go put on those head phones. And lookey here! The red flower makes it louder and the blue flower makes it quieter. That way YOU can determine the volume all yourself!"

Impressive.

So I watched your video. The whole thing. From beginning to end. I even read all the words you threw on the screen.

When all was said and done, after the headphones were off and the smiles exchanged and each and every goodbye received... I walked away very happy.

Although at first glance you seem like just another jolly old man, I can tell that you have a very deep soul. You see beauty. You see something so special in a wedding day. You seem to appreciate love and dear moments. And I could see that you do your best to capture those moments for people to hold on to forever.

You were my favorite person out of the entire show.

A Stranger's Story - Day 5

   I've seen you before.

Multiple times, actually.

I've seen you working, making coffee and greeting customers. You've helped me before. You even asked me how my day was going.

You're nice.

As many times as I have seen you, I've disregarded the idea of introducing myself. Why? Because I feel like the appropriate moment passed so long ago. I know it's probably all in my head... but, nonetheless, I continued to pretend like I've never seen you before.

But finally! The moment came.

I'm  not a creep, I swear it. I'm just observant. I remember people pretty easily. But what is worse... I even know your name. I know a few of your friends. I've heard people talk about you - good things, don't worry.

I was attempting to do some homework. Haha, yea, attempting would be the key word. Instead, I found myself lost in the world of a fellow blogger, lusting over home decor.

For some reason I decided to look up. You were with someone I knew, so I guess it made it less awkward for us both. Luckily, I didn't introduce myself out of the blue like I had imagined in my head. He just took the moment to introduce us both.

I could have just acted like this was the first time I've ever seen you. I could have acted as though I never heard your name before.

      But I decided to be honest with you.

I bashfully admitted that I've known of you. I told you of the embarrassingly long time it's taken for me to work up the courage to just say "Hi, my name is Taylor"

            Well, the good thing is... you felt the same exact way! Oh! What a relief it was to know that i wasn't alone in my silence. And to think, that all this time, you recognized my face and knew my name.

It was a pleasure to meet you, sir. You have a very awesome laugh - it's deep and full.

You seem like you have some big dreams. Big things you want to do with your life. And you seem like you love God a lot. But what do I know?

I know you now.

  Well, I guess this is a good thing.

             Because, now when I see you at the counter, I can say hello.

A Stranger's Story - Day 4

"Why do they make you get out of your car?"

I wonder this to myself every single time I go to that specific gas station. Not only do they force you to leave your cozy, warm bubble, but they charge an extra $0.35 for using your debit card. As if gas isn't already a brutal weekly expense.

My friend and I walk briskly towards the little market. We don't say much, for the small place is eerily quiet while people wait in line to pay for their purchases. We just kind of stand there. Waiting.

Once I've handed the short man a whole ten dollar bill, we head towards the door and walk back out into the night.

We're halfway to my car, and I hear an unfamiliar voice.

"I love your boots! Both of you guys, they're so cute!"

  My friend responds with a smile in her voice, thanking you for the kind compliment.

It was a passing comment. Something quickly blurted from point A to point B. Just a small intersection.

You asked where we got our leathery footwear, and I admitted that my friend had the real deal - mine were just the cheap version.

"Well I love them both!"

In that extremely short amount of time, we not only thanked you, but we asked your name and we told you ours. You said you worked just across the way, down at the little pizza parlor. Then we said goodbye.

             I liked you.


A week passed. I might have thought of you once or twice when I drove by the pizza place. In fact, because you brought my attention to the reality of there even being a pizza parlor in this small town, our family went to lunch there.

We absolutely loved it, by the way. Incredible food, fun atmosphere. I'm glad we went.

Another week or so passes. I haven't really thought about that night at the gas station.

My mom calls me while I'm driving home - yes, I know that it's illegal to talk on your phone while driving... i'm terribly sorry.She asks me to stop by that little pizza place and pick up something for our family game night. Woo! I'm excited for some delicious pizza.

When I walk in, a slightly moody girl with dark black hair asks what she can do for me.

     I'm kind of flustered. I don't really know what I'm ordering quite yet, but I feel the pressure of having to know right away. Actually, I'm not even using my own money. I'll have to call my mom to get her credit card number. All of this is kind of overwhelming for some reason.

"Uh... I'm not sure yet... sorry."

So I just stand there, awkwardly. Here I am, this short blonde thing with a doofy confused look on her face.

Once I compose myself, I walk to the counter. That girl just sort of stares at me. Waiting for me to say something.

  "Do you want a menu or something?"

"No thanks."

Why did I say that?! Yes, i would love a menu because my mind has gone completely blank! But instead, I just stare at the soda machine.

A few more painful moments pass and I finally work up the courage to ask for a menu.

"Actually, uh, I guess I'll look at a menu."

So I call my mom. Ask her what she would like. I find a bit of comfort in having an excuse not to engage in eye contact with Moody Counter Lady.

   "Taylor! Hey!"

What the? Oh great, someone I know is here to witness this?

                            And there you were. Mindy. 

You had that same kind smile spread across your face as you did at the gas station. And for some reason, your kindness and the fact that you remembered my name seemed to set me at ease.

When I hung up with my mom, you talked with me. You told Moody that you could take over the order. (That made me so happy.) As she walked away, you offered me some water and a place to sit at some cozy couches.

Mindy, I really enjoyed talking with you while I waited for the pizza to be done. You weren't only friendly, but you asked me questions and started a great conversation. You made me feel a whole lot more comfortable then when I first walked in.

I think I'll see you again. And I think we just might become friends.

               
                I think I need to go back and get some more pizza.

A Stranger's Story - Day 3

I don't normally do this.

Actually, I don't think I ever have.

The biting chill of winter's breath dug into my bones. The stars were invisible; as if the low temperatures weren't enough, there was an icy mist dancing slowly through the air.

I found very little comfort once I closed the door of my car and started the engine. It would be a while before the heater dared to give me some warmth.

I backed out, and continued on home. I drove slowly through the parking lot, stopping for an occasional car or pedestrian. I was just about out of the exit...

                                      and there you were.

          Dirty face. Layers of rags. Long, auburn dreadlocks.

   I smiled at you. Both of you, for you were sitting with a guy who matched your appearance.

  And I began to drive away.

I thank God for roundabouts. I thought I hated them - going in a circle that is just bound to run you into some idiot driver. But now I'm grateful for those circular death traps of concrete. Because just when i was about to  move on with my life and drive far away from where you sat... i felt the intense need to go back to you. So I went all the way around the circle and headed your way.

The feelings in my gut bubbled into my head. I wondered to myself if this was ridiculously stupid. But I soon felt peace.

                This was what I needed to do.

I parked fairly close to where you guys were sitting - just a few yards away. I unbuckled my seat belt and stepped back into the unforgiving January night. But each step was worth it.

I approached you, and you looked up at me. There was decay embedded in your smile, but you were beautiful all the same. It was a genuine smile.  a humble smile.

  I handed you $2... it was truly all I had to spare.

   I've heard people say not to give money away like that because "those kind of people" will just turn around and buy something like drugs and the such. But I didn't care one bit.

I didn't care how many have called you "that kind of person". Because, to me, you are a young girl who has a story. You have a life. You have a soul. You have dreams deep inside your worn out heart that whispers to you every now and then. You've probably walked through hell lately. Who am I to label you?

I talked with you guys, asked how you were. You seemed so grateful for two dollars. You said it meant two cheese burgers for two people from McDonald's. Two meals for a pair of hungry, wandering, homeless people.

Both of you were so kind; i didn't feel uncomfortable in the least bit. With every word each of us spoke, I felt a deeper sadness within me towards you. I wanted to take you home with me, give you a hot shower and a place to stay. I wanted to fix everything if I could. But I couldn't... so I gave you what I knew I could.

Perhaps it was just a few dollars, a bit of my time, and the invitation to a church service. But I hope you know I wish and pray the absolute best for you. For both of you.

                    It was so nice to meet you, Amber.
                         In fact, I truly hope to see you soon.

A Stranger's Story - Day 2

Your name is Kitty.

I pulled up to the Starbucks parking lot. You had the hood of your rusty, old car propped up - like a giant, open mouth awaiting surgery.

I was sure that the truck parked in front of you was in a position to assist you. But the big, burly man within the rumbling vehicle decided to back up and zoom off to some unknown destination.

How strange....that a man wouldn't bother to assist an older, stranded lady and her sad-looking machine.

So I made the decision- right then and there-to back up my little car and pull up in front of you. I hopped out into the icy air and rushed to the drivers side where you were sitting.

If I remember correctly, you were wearing a big, cozy sweater. It was baby blue, and a large Tweety Bird smiled back at me.

Can birds even smile?

You seemed so sweet, but quite distressed.

"Hey there, you need any help?"

"Oh, yes i do! My car died; i have jumper cables, but i just need someone to help me out."

"Well I would love to help! I'll pop my hood."

The look on your face was indescribable. You looked shocked that I was willing to help. You you looked so relieved.

That look on your face has been the best part of my day.

I can't even explain how wonderful it felt to help you. I got everything all hooked up, but it wouldn't start. I wasn't about to give up so soon.

We decided to give my jumper cables a go - yours were honestly pretty rusty. Perhaps it was fitting for your cables to match your car?

Once I hooked everything up again, we tried to bring your little car to life.
You poked your head out your door and gave me a thumbs up.

We both smiled.

As we got cables unhooked and hoods closed, you continued to thank me. Over and over again. You said it can be so hard to find young people who are willing to help.

This terrible fact saddened me. It weighed on my heart so very heavily. How is it that our generation has come to this?

Regardless of the pain your statement brought, I was absolutely overjoyed at the opportunity to help you. Before we parted ways, you said God bless.

We hugged.

This marks the second day I've received a hug from a stranger..... I think I could get used to this.

A Stranger's Story - Day One

I've realized something.

In the midst of living day to day, I have discovered I have a habit. Perhaps it could be taken as a bad habit. But there's a chance this strange addiction of mine has sparked an idea overflowing with the grandeur of creativity.

I, Taylor, have a habit of people watching.

In fact, not only do I watch people, but I study them. I observe them. I listen. I take in their body language, their facial expressions, their decision of attire, the tapping of their foot and the shortness of their breath. I evaluate. I analyze, inspect and scrutinize. I observe each and every detail my mind can possibly soak in.

Is this a problem? Hmm, possibly.

Do I care?      
                 
                  Not really.

In fact, I think I've actually inspired my own self. Is that allowed? I've not only observed those around me, but i've pondered myself and decided to make something of this slightly creepy habit I've developed.

I am going to choose one person each day. Just one. Someone who has caught my eye, who I have met during my daily activities, or who I randomly remember. The goal is to write for 2 weeks straight.... about strangers.

Want to join me in some daily people-watching?
                        It's fun, I promise.

Day 1

  The store is so large. So spacious, yet so full of shiny, fragrant and girly treasures. Everywhere I turn, my glowing eyes are greeted with all kinds of perfumes, hair products, facial cleansers and puffy little pink wash cloths. 
   
Everything I see calls out to me......

             "Taylor! Taylor! Buy me! Buy me! Oh, you know you need me."

     "You'll look fantastic and fresh if you use me!"

                     "I'll make you smell like a goddess!"

"Come over here, deary, I'll make your wildest dreams come true."

                                     I am overwhelmed. 

Within the iron grasp of my small, clammy hand is an incredible little piece of plastic - a gift card. An Ulta gift card, to be exact. 

There's countless, amazing things I could purchase. The options are so many I think I'm hyperventilating. 

I wander through the isles - slowly, carefully. I observe each item sitting on the pure, white shelves. I imagine deep in my mind what each product could possibly do for me. This or that, this or that, this....or that. Should I spend this much? Should I use this free money towards something more expensive that I wouldn't normally buy for myself? Should I buy a bunch of smaller items to satisfy my daily needs?

One half of the store is substantially cheaper than the other. One side holds the basic, simple products I've used for years. But, oh! The other side of the store calls out to me in her seductive, silky way. 

The closer I come to the other side, the more everything seems to sparkle. 

It's so beautiful.

But I quickly drag my mind back to the devastating truth..... I only have a certain amount to spend. And I have no idea where to begin with products such as these. I know next to nothing about this gorgeous world of high-end cosmetics.

                         And that is when it happened.

I scanned the giant store for someone to hopefully assist my clueless mind. 

Then I found you.

You were standing there, over a middle-aged woman with pink hair. Your back was to me, but somehow I had a feeling you were going to be pretty. The closer I came, I soon realized what you were doing. 

You were waxing pink-head's eyebrows.  She looked in pain, but trusting towards you.

I cautiously approached, for I dare not intrude on this painful procedure. But you sensed I was there. Or maybe it was the girl's gaze towards me that tipped you off. Either way, you turned around.

In all honesty, my first impression didn't feel very good. You seemed nice, you did. But I think it was your physical appearance that made me feel a bit uneasy. The first detail I noticed, was your black nails. You had short, stylish and slightly punkish, red hair. At first, I thought you might be annoyed that I was interrupting your waxing activities.

But you smiled at me and asked if you could help.

"I just need some help choosing some bare minerals makeup. When you have a moment."

"Okay, I'll be done in just 2 minutes, that okay?", you said so kindly.

"That's quite alright, I'm in no hurry." I did my best to respond just as kind.

      "Well in that case, I'll be 5 minutes."

We both laughed a little. It was more of a giggle on each of our parts.

                   
                      And that's the moment I decided I liked you.

As you began to help me on my venture into choosing a product that was suitable for me, I grew fonder and fonder of you. I already sensed you were a mother - a really good one at that, but what do I know? When you asked me to sit down at the mirror so you could apply a certain brand of makeup, I hesitated. I did this, because I knew that in order to apply new makeup, you were going to remove what I had on my face. That meant that each and every blemish upon my uneven skin would be visible to you... just a a foot away from your eyes.

           I felt so vulnerable.

But I chose to sit down, 
because I knew you were kind.

You spent over a half hour with me. You not only helped me make the best decision for a purchase, but you spent the time to explain, teach and talk with me. You taught me about things I've always wished I knew. You helped me understand my skin, and taught me little tricks I'm sure I'll use every day. 

But not only did you teach me about facials and makeup application, but you shared with me who you were and where you came from. 

I so thoroughly enjoyed learning about your internship with high class makeup artists, your journey from Portland, your ideas and the fact that you like to save money. 

And I was right, you are a mother. A mother of three boys.

My new found friend. You helped me decide on the absolute perfect purchase. And you even convinced the cashier to use a coupon that wasn't valid, just so I could save some extra money.

And before I said goodbye, we hugged. 


You told me to come back soon, even just to visit and I agreed easily. I left that store without that magical piece of money-containing plastic, and left with a warmed heart and a new friend. 


                     The new things I bought were just a bonus.