How Are You?

Jun 30, 2004

Every so often, the universe gives you a reality check.

When I heard some noise in the backyard, I went down to look. My cousin and my mom were with two guys from the Salvation Army, who were picking up in-kind donations. I open the sliding door and peep out.

One of the guys, I think his name was Ed, looks up at me. I spontaneously ask him, "How are you doing?" "Oh, I've been praying a lot," he says. Praying a lot? What kind of a response is that? Confusingly I counter: "Yeah?" Ed continues, "Yeah, it's a point of no return. Once you get into it, you can't go back. I'm doing good." Still in shock, I don't know what to say: "That's great. Keep it up."