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di's Insite
5 Gentlemen and a Lady
As I circled Atlanta early one evening on their by-pass, I began to wonder if now was the time to try an exit. I was sure I was passing the same exits as before. I was tired and knew that I had better stop soon. Usually I get lost at least once on a trip, sometimes in the same area twice. Luckily this time I was getting my standard lost-again stop near a Waffle King.
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Inside I found several middle-aged people eating at the counter, talking and laughing together. The scene reminded me of friends who meet for breakfast every morning at the same restaurant-- the waitress knows how they like their coffee. This petite smiling waitress worked alone and welcomed me while she served her small group of counter customers. Five men sat eating at the counter, and seemed to be friends meeting for an after work supper.
When I explained I was lost and trying to find my way off the bypass to the highway that would take me to Macon, they stopped eating, and a lively discussion on what was happening in Macon ensued. They all seemed to know one another, laughing and joking while patting each other on the back and arms. I explained I was really on my way from Macon to Lyons and of course they knew where that was too and promptly discussed the best way for me to travel. I was impressed by their willingness to help a stranger and listened to the good hearted kidding about who knew his directions best. Finally a general consensus was met as who was most qualified to direct me.
They all leaned over to watch as one man drew me a map on a napkin. I am not too good on East/West directions... especially at night.
After asking "If I went left there, would I take a right here?" He decided he had better drive his car for me to follow to the correct turn off. I tried to discourage him (well a little!) but the crowd had decided I needed the extra help and agreed with him that it was no problem. I shook hands with these smiling people and really wanted to hug them.
I regretted not having the time to stay and eat with them. But I had driven so much I was overdue a rest and knew it had better be in Macon soon. I followed my good Samaritan out the door, getting into my van while watching to see what car he drove. I pulled up behind him and off we went. It wasn't long before he pulled over, signaling for me to go on ahead.
I often think of that group sitting there, welcoming this stranger with smiles that put her at ease in disclosing her predicament. Sure, I could have stopped at the wrong place at the wrong time... but I stopped at a Waffle King, where 5 gentlemen and a lady welcomed this stranger off the road.
© 1999 di
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