I went downtown to find a book for Maura, my granddaughter on how to deal with the death of a loved one. Her other grandmother, Barbara died this past weekend and I leave for the wake and funeral in a few days. It seems difficult finding a parking spot and I don't know why at first. I let go of even trying to find one and take a 'what will be, will be' attitude and voila! One is found.
I didn’t realize it but it is Mardi Gras weekend and there’s a parade starting. I stand beside the parking space in the center of town putting on lip gloss.
Damascus: You don’t need to put money in the meter on Sunday.
Damascus: Oh…(when he realized I wasn't and then smiles sheepishly.)
Damascus: Do you have $2 to spare me for lunch.
Me: Still applying my lip gloss I looked at him and say, What are you having for lunch?”
Damascus: A hot dog he points in the direction of where they are sold. Then I am going to my sister’s.
Me: Where does your sister live?
Damascus: Off of Merrimon.
Me: (I give him a few dollars, as I wonder how he is going to get to his sister's and think maybe I’ll offer him a ride but then think better of it.)
Me: Instead I say, sorry to ask so many questions, I’m Kris.
Damascus Hi I am Damascus. (we shake hands)
Me What a perfect name to hear on a Sunday!
Damascus: Smiles.
Me: Damascus you sure you’re going to use it to buy a hot dog?
Damascus: Yes, I don’t drink. (Pause) I just smoke cigarettes.
Me: Well they aren’t good for you either.
Damascus:Yeah, but I am having trouble quitting.
Me: Yeah, I know its tough. My husband is trying to quit, too.
Damascus: I went to e-cigarettes for awhile but can’t find a flavor I like. Then he changes the subject, did you know ma’am that there is a Mardi Gras parade starting soon?
Me: Yeah, Damascus I see that. I hate parades.
Damascus: He steps back slightly when hearing me say the word hate. Then chuckles and tells me how I can get around the parade so I don't have to deal with it.
Me: Thanks, Damascus, I may try to do that. Have a good day…
Damascus: You too.
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