Toffee and I just returned from our morning walk. Normally we go out around 5 or 6, before others are out walking, but today I had too much to do.
At a local fountain where people like to gather for coffee, lunch or chats, I noticed a man blowing me a kiss. My first reaction was ‘how bizarre’ that someone in this day and age would blow a kiss toward a random stranger. Then I thought that he must know me, although with the sun in my eyes and sunglasses and hat on his head, I couldn’t place him. Finally he took his hat off and waved, and I recognized the gentleman who lives around the corner from me.
The first time we chatted was a day when an elderly woman fell on the sidewalk in front of me when I was walking Toffee. A nurse ran to the woman to comfort her while I called for an ambulance and kept a safe distance to keep Toffee from attacking anyone. He is not fond of frail people falling in front of him. I am not happy with his reaction to his own fears, but I am at least aware of it and keep others as safe as possible. This man, Doug, came by and stayed with us until the paramedics could safely deal with the woman and transport her to hospital.
Since that day, Doug and have become friends, chatting frequently. He used to travel often with his wife, but as are the rest us, they are stuck at home for now. I live in a city that feels like a small town. Every day when I head out for walks I see people whom I call my friends, or at least acquaintances. Most people are friendly and look out for each other. These days they show concern and kindness by crossing the road to walk on the empty sidewalk, or step out on the boulevard to pass with distance. Last night I was waiting for take-out along with several others, in front of the local Japanese restaurant. A youngish man was walking determinedly along the sidewalk complaining to all who could hear about life in general…I’ll leave out the specific comments. Another woman who was waiting with me kept a calm tone as she said that he is harmless, and unfortunately has fallen through the cracks (chasms) in the health system. Once again I was reminded that in this neighbourhood people are looking out for each other as best as we can during this time.
Reflections 