Expectations & Surprises
Photo Credit: Emily Giacomini
A month or so ago I woke up on a Saturday looking for something to do. I found a Meetup “hike” through DC and gave it a shot, since I’m (almost) always up for something new. Because I hate circling to find parking in DC and the group was gathering in Georgetown where spots are notoriously lacking, I booked a spot online just across the bridge in VA for half the price of the nearest Georgetown option. Even as I pulled into the deck I knew I’d be a few minutes late, so I forced myself to break into a jog as I approached the bridge, my goal firmly in mind.
Riding across the bridge on a red city bike rental toward me was a disheveled looking man and it occurred to me as odd. It was a bit early in the morning for tourists to be out exploring and there’s much more to see on the DC side of the river . . . why would he be coming this direction?
The thought flashed through my mind- maybe he’s homeless and if that’s the case, how did he get a bike? How does the system work and how easy is it to steal one? As we drew closer to each other, he cut left just ahead of me, pulled up next to a planter of small purple flowers, plucked one and thrust it toward me as I passed, saying, “Here you go!”
I was so startled and still focused on running that I’m glad I even had the presence of mind to respond, “Thanks!” as I jogged by, not taking the flower. I hoped he’d felt seen, even though I hadn’t accepted the present, since I was caught off guard in the moment.
As I jogged over the bridge I contemplated the incident. How often do I judge people without cause? It gave me a window into the gap between my view point and what happened. Listening to the radio this morning I caught part of a program where the interviewee was enumerating the benefits of doing our best in life and having low expectations of outcomes- not to say that we work less hard, but that we put in the effort and then let the chips fall where they may. I think it applies to people too, where putting in my best means being open to whatever and whoever comes around the corner (or across the bridge) and what they have to offer. I was stunned by the impromptu kindness of someone about whom I’d initially been a bit wary . . . how much more joy might I experience if I were open as a rule?
As I continued my jog over the (very long) bridge to meet my new friends, I had to grin in humility, grateful for the thoughtfulness of a fellow human and what he’d shown me.