it's easier not to say hello

I had just finished dinner at my favorite restaurant downtown, Harlow.  It’s raw vegan.  It fits Portland.  It fits me.  After my typical meal of pesto mac and a charcoal smoothie, I went outside to take a walk.  With my headphones in, I hit shuffle.

Although it’s summer, the Oregon rains began to drizzle.  I put my hoodie up and walked by a man huddled in a corner playing cards by himself.

Then I walked by another person who was completely covered by a blanket, trying to stay warm and dry from the cool air and rains.

And as I continued walking, I walked by an elderly lady who sat in a chair with a sign, ‘need help.’  As I walked by, she asked me a question.  In my mind, I already knew the question and kept walking.  It’s easier just to keep moving.

And as I kept walking, her words registered with me, “Can you tell me what time it is?”

I stopped. 

Walking back to her, I said, “It’s 9pm.”

She replied, “Thank you.”

I took two steps away from her and then quickly turned around and stuck out my hand, “What’s your name?  I’m John.”  We both smiled.