She and I are not really talking to one another
just one of those exchanges that happen
in bathrooms when the silence is awkward
and we both have to wash our hands.
"I like your singing," she says. And I say, "really?"
"Yes," she says. "it was pretty." Then she
folds her hands over and over under the water
with a look of determination so intent I pay
attention; she is teaching me something
about commitment. "Thank you," I say.
She thinks I mean for the compliment.
I mean for the lesson from an 8-year-old
teacher who meant every word.
© Valerie Bridgeman
October 6, 2013
Don't you love those thank yous delayed and on time?
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