What’s wrong with noisy people?

Nothing at all. Often noisy people are having fun. Even, in the midst of the uproar, little oases of sit-aside peace can be found…

Toddler’s birthday party

The joys, OMG, the joys! Little people rush around, vibrant packages of energy and loving emotion.

Then, of course, there are parents and grandparents. Wine, beer and food, consumed with gusto (this is Scotland after all). Inevitably, some conversations are disrupted by tears and needy wee folk. The babble rises and falls like surf on a beach.

Weight off

Being the non-drinking driver for a family event in Scotland has advantages. For instance, today I circulate, catch up, have a few world-to-rights conversations, laugh with some people … and when I’m ready, I fade away.

There’s an enticing comfy chair beside a wall and I make it mine. Before long, a lively grandson drops by for a chat. He moves on. I relax and talk with someone across the room. Then, I notice a presence.

Peace in the midst

A couple of seats away, a young man of my acquaintance sits, thoughtful. We catch eyes. I raise an eyebrow. He shares a half, almost-dreamy, smile.

‘Enjoying some peace?’ An almost-uncertain nod is the response. ‘Thinking?’ He smiles, nods, but doesn’t speak.

‘You were somewhere else?’

‘Yes.’

‘Nice?’

‘Uhh huh.’

We nod heads at each other and sit once more, hushed, amidst a quietening riot. I reflect, suddenly lost within. When awareness returns, he’s gone … back to noisy.

Fond farewell

When they’re ready to leave, he comes to me for a hug. His brother shared a wrestler’s, competitive, shougle of a squeeze moments before. This young person gives me a firm embrace and looks into my eyes with deep, calm, warmth. Connected, I rub his back and release him.

Then he’s gone, fading slowly into a warm memory. I know peace.

© Mac Logan