I often walk to Janetos at lunchtime, especially in decent weather. It’s about 6 minutes up the hill from work. As a grocery store, they have only canned soup, but I like that sometimes and it’s much cheaper than the $6 from Terra Cotta Pasta. In fact, I’m eating Campbell’s chicken & rice soup right now.
I took a break on a bench because my belly is acting up again today. It was pleasant and shady and I was quite enjoying myself. I was surprised and frightened by a man who came up to me, sat on the bench, and asked for a dollar. He was wearing a Janeto’s shirt, which disconcerted me. I reflexively said, “No” in a pretty harsh voice. He stuck out his hand and I did not want to explain that I don’t shake hands if I can help it. He then tapped me on the arm and walked away.
This really shook me up. I had to calm down in the store. But I just didn’t want to reach into my pocket in front of this guy. I looked for him after shopping but he had wandered away. I had $5 I was ready to hand him, along with an apology for being rude about the handshake. I guess my karma will just have to take the hit. If I see him again, I’ll recognize him and do something. I really don’t know why he needs money, unless he’s an addict or just got fired by Janetos. I guess this is how my brother lives down south. I’ll just do better next time, not that it helps him…although who knows if I’m helping him?
Tom's Walks 