People Who Make You Smile #2
About a month ago, I was enjoying an early morning breakfast at a French bakery in Santa Fe, NM. As I enjoyed a cafe au lait and crepes, I looked around the cafe. Five men, all in their 40’s-70’s, likely on vacation, catching up on quick early morning emails or news. Nothing exciting.
Then, around 7am, an ebullient lady who appeared to be in her 90’s with what looked like her daughter, entered the restaurant. We all took notice. I’m not sure if she was a local or perhaps a frequent Santa Fe visitor, but she chatted with the owners and wait staff and filled the space with good energy.
I eavesdropped, spied, and generally took notice.
She chatted about the Spanish Market setting up for the weekend and an early treasure that she found at a bargain price. I’m sure the artist was as impressed with her as I was and gave her a good price for making her day. But, she talked about it with the enthusiasm of a child who had just been given some cheap treasure that was exquisite in her eyes.
She seemed to be taking refreshing gulps of life, especially the beauty of this specific day. She laughed, joked, and transcended the decades of aging with her 10 year old smile. Alert, sharp, engaged, she asked questions with an acute curiosity and fascination.
And in turn, I was fascinated with her. I’ve met people like this before, but they seem to be the exception rather than the norm. People in the last decade of life still living with voracity. I love it! I want to be like these people some day. And I am thankful for this anonymous Santa Fe Lady who made me smile.
Worth Repeating
If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.
-Anonymous
