Simply Sunday

Returning Customers

Her quiet way and
seasoned mannerisms
eased my impatience

I watched as she wrote
each order in shorthand
on paper tickets
Waited as she entered prices
one key at a time on an
old-fashioned cash register

She was part of a well-oiled
machine concerned with
service and product, not speed

Have you been here before?
Yes, this is my second visit
We love returning customers

Right, Alex? Glancing behind me
Looking back at me, she smiled
You have a beautiful smile

An unexpected compliment
while ordering lunch
I smiled back, Thank you

And She Waited

As her petals began to open
Delicate and damp from
The Spring morning dew
Her sweet message was released
Carried away on a gentle breeze-
And she waited
Soaking in warmth from the Sun
Her soft, pink skin stretching
Toward the light-
And she waited a bit longer
Marvelling at the towering tree above
And the green grass below-
Finally, her message was answered-
First, her friend Butterfly
Stopped in for a sip of tea-
Buzzing Bee was next to visit
Grateful for shared resources –
The first of many sacred exchanges
Each one required great patience
And long listening-
All worth the wait

Sharing a poem from a recent poetry circle. A big thank you to Ali Grimshaw. 🩷

One More Glance

Searching
For a smile
Through fog
And darkness
Although
Not yet visible
Trusting
It is there
Waiting for
Just the right
Moment
To appear
Glance to one side
And then the other
Still no smile
Stepping out
Of the car
Deep sigh
One more glance
There it is!
A single strand
Of pink light
Between
The bluish grays-
I breathe deep
Smile back

More Waiting

Wednesday did not go as planned. Yes, I had a moment of clarity which encouraged me to be patient and focus on others. My mood improved and I felt prepared to face the rest of the day. At least, I thought I was prepared.

After being in pre-op for more than two hours, my dad was informed his surgery was canceled. Apparently, previous surgeries had taken longer than expected. A new anesthesiology policy would not permit the procedure to begin unless there was a guarantee of being finished by 5:00 P.M. What?!

Although the doctors were sincerely apologetic, I was extremely frustrated. You can imagine how my dad was feeling. I could not simply walk away without advocating him.

I not so quietly reminded them that Dad is 75, diabetic, and had been on a liquid diet for five days in preparation for this surgery. This was not acceptable. The doctors agreed and offered other possibilities, none of which were “best scenario” options.

Returning to the waiting room, I informed the rest of the family. By this time, I was angry. I shot off several texts to friends and family, expressing my frustration. Let’s just say, that patient attitude I had reclaimed earlier-well, it was gone.

Some dinner and quiet provided time to think about the situation. Maybe dad is not supposed to have this procedure right now. Are there other options to pursue? I don’t know. I do know we will do some more waiting. And for now, that is ok.

Waiting provides time for praying, researching, and asking questions. Which hopefully means the waiting will lead to wisdom. Which brings us back to patience.

My sweet dad with his youngest granddaughters. ❤

On a positive note, we were able to enjoy the Fourth of July. A small family cookout and some fireworks at a local park. For that I am thankful.