Janette and I were sitting in a waiting room, waiting. A young girl was also there sitting alone. Her mom was inside the office for an appointment. The young girl looked like about 11 but seemed to carry the burdens of someone much older. It was a small waiting room so I began to talk to her. We talked about things kids around 11 talk about. She told me about movies, TV and music that she liked. She also told me about things she did not like. We even shared a few jokes. The little girl and I only talked a few minutes before it was time for Janette and I to go. As I stood to leave, I looked back at the small girl and told her bye. With a smile that was not there before, she quietly said “Thank you.” I thought about what she had said and why she may have said it, then I made time to listen to my kids.
… Tim Dumas
