Hello In There!

It’s been happening more and more lately. I’m out in public, doing my thing. Happy. My older, blue eyes twinkling. Seeking out other eyes to connect with. But few are open for business. The “CLOSED” sign is up and I can’t for the life of me, get their attention, so that they can open up and receive the smile I’m giving them.
 
Through the years, my day has been upgraded many times because of the smile or kindness a friend….or a stranger has generously given me.  I’m not saying this lightly. Life is challenging, not all of us make it through. Honestly, some days, it was a sweet smile from a complete stranger that gave me just the glimmer of hope I needed. I greatly appreciate a genuine smile. 
 
And so….all my life…I have made a point of giving my smiles back – it’s my gift. It’s a way to connect with another human being. 
 
My smile says “I see you and wish you well. Hello in there!” 
 
As I was coming of age figuring life out, Joan Baez sang this song called, “Hello In There,” written by John Prine.  Even at 17, it spoke directly to my soul. She and I sang that song over and over through the years. Occasionally, we still do. It stuck with me and recently has been on replay in my head. There’s something to it.
 
You know that old trees just grow stronger,
And old rivers grow wilder every day.
Old people just grow lonesome
Waiting for someone to say, “Hello in there, hello.”
 
So if you’re walking down the street sometime
And spot some hollow ancient eyes,
Please don’t just pass ‘em by and stare
As if you didn’t care, say, “Hello in there, hello.”
 
Thank you John and Joan, for passing along a compassion and wisdom that has stayed with me… and comforts me nearly 50 years later.
 
Closing 2021, there’s probably many reasons why I’m noticing less “connection” with my fellow human beings – politics, pandemic, holidays, social stigmas and my own advancing age. 
 
Truth be known, my smiling eyes connecting with other eyes…. exchanging some kind of authentic acknowledgement…a knowingness, is as much a gift to myself as it is to anyone else.
 
So be looking out for me, catch my twinkling eyes and say, “Hello in there!”

Love is ALL There Is!

Diana