I know this man. He’s lived a rich life, now circumscribed to walking his errands around the neighborhood. He’s made friends in all the shops; stopping to ask about people’s lives, their families, their days. His bearing is dignified in his Navy veteran ball cap, his smile ready, his presence a part of their routine now.
Word Count: 100
A True Gentleman
– Where is he? He’s usually stopped in by now.
– Who’re you talking about?
– You know – our gentleman caller. He’s late. Where do you think he’s gotten to?
– Oh – didn’t you hear? I guess you were off yesterday.
– What? Did something happen?
– His daughter came in yesterday to pick up their groceries. He passed away on Sunday. I told her how much we enjoyed his visits every morning.
A tear etched its way down her cheek as she spoke. Neither of them said anything for a while.
– Such a kind man.
– A good life, that’s what he had.
– A good life.
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© Erin Leary
Powerful. It really has a strong connection to the photo and I think many of us have known that man.
He was a true gentleman. Aren’t enough of them around these days.
janet
Nice story Erin.
Dear Erin,
That is a nice vignette. We should all be so lucky.
Aloha,
Doug
Dear Erin,
This made me think of some of the elderly gentlemen, mostly veterans, who come into my store every day. A touching story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
Poignant story… reminds me of the various characters I notice around the town where I live and how I wonder about them… nice.
Love that story… and I agree they still exist. Looking for company and providing company. Hope to be one later in life