A piece of my time

When I picked up my coffee this morning it took me extra long. It's funny because I told my coworkers I was "Going for a super duper fast coffee run. Be right back!" I was gone for half hour; it should have been 10 minutes.

When I pulled up to the window I was greeted by a girl with a dirty blonde bob hair cut, a cute but raggedy old sweater, and a layered top in Seahawks colors. Her name was Kate.

Kate and I talked about our boys bringing home the Lombardi, our dreams, our work, charity work, and good coffee. We shared common interests,  laughed, and got choked up about passionate subjects.

I admit that at first I was hoping we could hurry things up. I had a mountain of work at home to do and did say I'd be back quickly. But as she went on I suddenly realized that I just needed to let go and be chatty with her. The work would be there when I got back to my desk.

We talked about her recovery, religion versus spirituality, and what real friendships are made of. By the end of the conversation it was like we were old friends.

Just before I pulled away she said "It's people like you that give me hope. Thank you."

What had I done to deserve such sweet admiration? I gave her a piece of my time and a smile. Nothing more, nothing less. Really, that was all that she was asking for. I allowed myself to be fully present on the conversation instead of rushing home like I had planned to do.

Next time someone is asking for a piece of your time I hope you give it to them. I know I will think twice about rushing off again.