A Chat

"How are you Janice?"

I had become friendly with the new receptionist over the last few weeks.

"Good. I used to say 'I'm Blessed', but I was told I can't say that here."

"Yeah, some people find it offensive."

I wanted to tell her that I don't find it offensive, that I find it meaningless. But then most of our greetings don't carry much meaning.

"I have a question for you."

"Sure."

She handed me her flip phone and asked how she could put the bible on it.

"I'm not sure you can, you may just need to carry a tiny bible in your pocket. You really don't need the Old Testament."

She'd been the receptionist for a few weeks and it was only yesterday that I realized the hoveround parked behind the desk belonged to her. She was always behind the desk when I arrived and behind the desk when I left. I never pictured her arriving on wheels.

I was sitting at the front desk with Janice because my 2PM patient hadn't arrived and Janice seems to like me. I like people who like me.

"I'm going to bible study tonight. Do you go to church?"

"No"

"Are you an atheist?"

She scooted away from me while asking this as if I'd be dangerous if I were an atheist. I didn't answer the question. I don't really know if I am one or not. I guess that makes me an agnostic.

"I was raised in church. Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night." Maybe this would repair the new rupture in our work friendship.

"Did they tire you out on it"

"I guess that's it"

"Oh, well as long as it's inside you, that's what matters. I like your spirit. I really do. I sense it in you."