Thursday, November 8, 2012

A True Story

So, I was waiting in a doctor's office for my bride to finish her appointment.  It was actually relaxing, with comfortable chairs and a Keurig machine.  After a rather extended waiting period, I spotted the wife emerging from the back and settling up with the receptionist.  The receptionist was mid-twenties and cute.  As they were moving funds to and fro and waiting for the card reader to spit out a receipt, I saw them huddling together, glancing in my direction and laughing.

Now, I know I can be a little paranoid, but I was unsettled by the obvious collection of glances and chuckles thrown in my direction.  I mean, really, I was good enough to act as chauffeur on this expedition and the least they could do was show a little gratitude.  How were the cute receptionist and the doctor going to get paid without me?

Once the mime exhibition was concluded, Betsy and I walked to the car.  As I started the car up, I asked what the joke was.  My wife said that the receptionist commented on how nice my hair looked.

I will admit that I am conceited as the next person (at least, if not more), but my conceits generally are more intellectual than physical.  The last time I received a sincere complement on my physical attributes (other than my bride, of course) was sometime in the mid-1970's.  (And now that I remember it, that may have been sarcasm as well).  But, I do have a full head of hair, turning gray but still full.  I am a great trial to my barber, who is hoping to taper off his work and retire; however, I always return with a full supply of the old brain insulation and back to work he goes.

So, my reaction to this complement was immediate.  The old sparkle in the eye was evident and I preened just a bit.  Looked at myself in the mirror, preened some more.

Then Betsy said:  "yes, she wants hair like yours when she gets old."

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