Some things just are.
From our first meeting in Columbus we connected. Not physically, per se, but spiritually. Bonded by mutual values and knowing smiles…on the same page.
East coast worldly—more accent than attitude—she’d listen, share, but never judge. Clearly, this was the perfect antidote for socially inept Bruce as he spiraled madly in love with the Jersey Girl. Friendship with Linda, then, was never anything more than clearly platonic. As such, it was always nice ‘n easy.
Ah, the Glory Years, the college years. Arguably (until recently), these WERE the best days of my life. A’s in everything but attendance, cruising in contact lenses and a Mustang, the world was my oyster (not that I would touch one).
We graduated. To separate states, lives, marriages, careers, kids. Then, in the precise time the Jews spent traversing the desert, we reconnected.
Mid-town Manhattan. Lunch. Like yesterday.
No pretension. No frills. Just catching up, renewing, sharing, and (again) parting.
“Let me know when you’re coming back.”
“Absolutely,“ I assured.
It never quite plays that way, though (and I knew it). Still, it was hard not to notice that despite life’s curves, despite the long and winding road….she still had that amazing grace.
So we’ve stayed in touch—spurts interrupted by months; (I’m accused of “disappearing”). Ultimately, though, we convene.
She had a birthday Tuesday—MY cue to reach out. Phoning, getting voice mail, as “charming” as ever, I opted merely to sing “Happy Birthday.” No hello, no goodbye, no name. Either she recognizes or she doesn’t!
An hour later the jousting began:
“Thanks!” began her text. “…You actually have a good voice!” No hello, no goodbye, no name.
“In court—check your ears, lady.” (I shot back, perhaps not with my “A” game).
Timing, of course, is always an issue. I’d sent a gift, but sensed it had yet to arrive. Within hours, though, it had.
She wrote again, in thanks for the present and “even more beautiful card,” noting “I’ll get my ears checked if you get your eyes checked.”
That ended interaction for the day. A draw, as usual. Nice n’ easy, as usual.
Some things just are.
Woo-Hoo! Could it be karma?