You arrive, quite on time. Your shirt catches my attention: it is a light green colour, gentle on the eyes, and appears soft to the touch. For a moment, I consider complimenting you, for I really do think your shirt looks nice on you, and suits you; but the words in my heart fail to find a voice witch which to reach you.
We stand side by side at the counter of the café. Although it was me who invited you today, you take out your card (which I notice is slightly bent) and offer to pay.
“Would you like something to eat?” you ask, but I feel bad enough about you paying for my drink that I decline your offer, as kind and generous as I realise it to be.
We find a table and take a seat, opposite one another. As much as I long to speak with you, I suddenly feel very shy, and am at a loss as to what to say first. You seem to sense this immediately, and noticing my book on the table, ask me what I’m reading.
“Thomas Hardy – he’s my favourite author”, I manage to say, the nervousness transforming into excitement as there is little I enjoy more than books.
“Oh really? I have read all of his books.”
I can’t help but smile – somehow, learning that you like my favourite author enough to have read all of his works fills me with amusement and pleasure … not to mention that it is my intention also to read all of his novels. It seems you and I have similar libraries …
Our conversation turns to politics, which is not a topic I often find myself discussing. Yet, the more time passes, the more comfortable I become. It is in the way you speak to me, I believe: you express your views, but kindly, and always with a smile; you allow me room to speak, without judging nor criticising my thoughts; when you notice me unsure of myself, you keep the conversation going, easily and willingly.
And then an hour’s passed and you genuinely look sorry for having to get going. You apologise three times, as if perhaps you might have liked to stay with me some while longer. We part ways, saying good-bye and smiling (for smiling at each other we seem to do a lot of).
I am left feeling much alive, for this short hour with you was worth an infinite number of hours with strangers and acquaintances. I disliked nothing of our time together; on the contrary, it has only reinforced my dream-like notion that you are a very special and dear friend to me.
Words & Feelings 