Heart- Shaped Shadows

I ran into you at a thrift store. It was a modern affair with '70's style interior, terrazzo flooring to the dark wood paneled walls, but it worked. It felt lived in, warm. We said hello briefly, as you seemed to be in a rush, searching for something hidden.

The store was full of well kept oddities, and there was something for everyone. A carpeted, quiet room with books stacked neatly, aisles comfortably wide. Circulars of clothes, sorted by size. Furniture, kitchenware, and glass cases full of shiny things.

I had been there often, but knew the clerks face only well enough to wave. Some time later, waiting to check on something with the staff, I noticed you standing at the counter, face pinched with unsettled aggravation. Feeling awkward in my own awareness, I decided not to wait and went back to browsing. You could spend hours here, and I found that apparently, you could, too. I didn't mind having a partner in my own day's frivolity.

Eventually I plucked up the courage to interrupt your fervent endeavor. I had to ask, I had to know what had bothered you so. Matter-of-factly, you said that you didn't like the silly multiple choice answer in an English textbook you found, and that you weren't sure it should be sold, being of lesser quality for it's error. It struck me how conscientious you were.

The hours pass and for some reason, I found myself taking several naps in one of the many rooms. Music wafts in, people passing quietly by, hushing others to let me rest. Sun-filled moments began to blur into the dusky edged vignettes of the afternoon. I feel the day is coming to a close, and with that a sense of loss. No bag in hand, I make my way to the door. I am surprised to find you next to me just as we reach the storefront windows, the sun's last golden pink rays shining through. With a hint of a smile, you point out one of the large mason jars sitting on the counter, and say, "See it there?"

I was sincerely lost, and said as much. Your smile became brighter still, as you shared your secret. This jar of sweets was slowly creating a heart shaped shadow as each cookie was taken, and the next fell into place.

My head and heart hoped I would see it, seeing the joy it brought to you. Bending at the knee, eyes squinting ever so softly, it took me only a second to see that it was true...