Opus 2026-118: No Contact Information

I am sitting in a waiting room.  My son is upstairs having a procedure done.  One of the joys of being a parent is seeing children grow to independence and learn to stand on their own two feet.  Another joy is still being needed.  I know that he has a sister who could be here but I got the call.

As I sit and try to concentrate I am constantly distracted by the conversations going on around me.  They cause my mind to seek rabbits and the trails are always ready to offer their services.

One lady was not able to get past the receptionist because she had nobody to contact when she was ready to leave.  It wasn’t that there was no one but there was no one who was waiting with her or immediately responsive.  It could just be one of those snafus that happen in life.  It could also be that she had nobody who was willing, or able, to be there when needed.  I am sure she will work it out but whoever she was trying to get to was not responding.

That brought my mind to all the women on the social media who declare that they are childless and quite happy.  I would not call them liars but the day will come when they eat their words.  It isn’t just about having someone to care for you when you are old.  It isn’t about people who will help you.  If you have enough money you can pay for service.  It is about having in-depth relationships with others.  It is about being willing to give, not about having a human insurance policy.

The room is full of people waiting.  In some cases it is two people waiting for one to be called up stairs.  In others it is significant others who have taken time out of their busy lives to be here for someone in need.  And then there is that one lady who is trying to get hold of her ride home.  She can’t get past the desk until they respond.  It will work out but there is a note of sadness.

Why can’t I mind my own business?

homo unius libri