She extended her arm to Stranger and pulled Stranger's hand close, squeezing and welcoming. With her other arm, She gestured to the stool to the right of Her wheelchair and Stranger sat. Eye contact stronger than the foundation below their feet.
Stranger sweat. "Hello, shundor."
She smiled.
So Stranger continued. "How are you today? Are you well?"
She stared mouth open and body still.
"I am well. I saw you in the corner. I saw you, and I came here to say hello to you!``
Stranger's hand was held tighter by Her's. She gently lifted Her free hand to Stranger's face. A brisk slap. Stranger giggled out of shock, not angry. Just observing. Stranger took the hand that slapped her and guided it back to her own face softly, keeping eye contact with Her. And She listened. And she listened.
This time, Stranger raised her arm, waiting for Her response. She met Stranger's hand in the air and their energies intertwined. Her mouth widened with a smile that spoke friendship. She laughed and Stranger mirrored Her.
Together,
Christine Bean Peloquin
Nice post, Christine, as are the previous posts from other students.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of you all in Kolkata, and I hope that your trip goes well. SMC can be proud of and grateful for your work.