The Marta Chronicles

I hate 5 points. It is nasty to me. Just my opinion, especially when it rains. The pigeons own the place, we are the renters. Really. And if the pigeons don't kill you by pooping on you unmercifully or flying into you (as if to say, "move outta my way") then surely the sidewalk preachers will preach you into hell (if they can't place you in heaven).

Walking down peachtree. Saw a man wrapped up in orange, a sachel swinging from his shoulder - and books in his hand. He was bald. But I looked at him too long and forgot my angry face. Because he smiled. He was so pleasant . . . something about him. He stopped me as we passed, no hand reached for me but I stopped. And he streched out his hand to shake mine. I took his into my own, it was softer than mine, almost like a baby's hands. "I'm a Buddist Monk." He announced. "Have you ever met one." And I told him no, not personally. And he pulled one of his books out of his sachel and extended it towards me . . . I shook my head and told him I was happy to have met him but had to leave (I was about 3 minutes overdue from lunch). But I feel that I missed an opportunity. I'm curious about Buddism (I don't even think I'm spelling it correctly). There, was the opportunity for me to talk with him, but when he pushed that book towards me, I felt like he was going to be asking for a donation next. So . . . maybe the opportunity was missed maybe not . . . if I really want to know I'll do some research. Right?

posted by Darni @ 2/14/2001 11:57:00 PM

Oh my God! David, she was stalking you. Now that's the worse - I figured she wanted something when she first asked you if you attended GSU . . . Isn't it annoying to be solicited . . . by religious organizations? I've also had similar situations happen to me - mostly at the Lindburgh train station. A young lady walked up to me with the biggest smile and asked if I attended church regularly. And it didn't matter that my response was "yes" (at the time of course) she still invited me to her church. Even had a bit of literature to distribute. I hate being solicited. To me, they are worse than those telemarketers who call your house at dinner time . . . If I don't look busy . . . please assume that I am - and keep your distance.

But hey, its all about relaxing and enjoying the ride - right Marta?

posted by Darni @ 2/12/2001 06:27:00 AM