Yesterday’s temperatures scorched every last one of my brain cells and, as such, I was unable to properly manage my time between activities and missed my nightly call with Maga.
Fortunately, today’s a holiday and I made better use of my time outside the office. We chatted about fireworks and upcoming trips and family and sports. Her voice was slightly hoarse, but instead of a cold, she complained about her back.
“I guess that’s just one of the reasons why I can’t go with you,” she said.
“But the good news is that there will be pictures and postcards galore.”
“Oh, good. I’ll look forward to that.”
As we discussed when our next phone call would take place (since I’ll be out of touch during our regularly scheduled time), she said, “If you get a chance to say goodbye, please do, but if you don’t, that’s okay too. I love you.”
I’ll admit this display of generosity caught me by surprise because more often than not, it’s a guilt trip she lays down, and guilt is a heavy load to bear. And with the continued scorching temperatures here, it might have been too much. But this little act of kindness was like a breath of fresh, cool air.
“I love you too, Maga,” I said. “I’ll talk to you on Monday.” Not out of guilt or habit, but because I want to.
Abigail Mumford 