Table for one.
I saw him walk into the restaurant alone. The owner of the restaurant greeted him with a warm hug, just the way traditional Italians do. He was an elderly man, slightly hunched over and almost leaning too far forward as he walked towards the table. The table was situated in a quiet corner of the restaurant. It looked as though it was specially set for the man as it was set for one. I could tell that he was “old school” by the way he was dressed. He wore a neatly ironed pair of grey trousers, an old but clean off white shirt, a jacket and a pair of freshly polished shiny black shoes. Judging by the roughness of his hands, I thought he could be some sort of artisan or perhaps he no longer had anyone caring for him.
Quietly in his candle lit corner, he took a few cards and envelopes out of his right pocket, and out of the other pocket he took out a few Euros and a pen. He then placed the items on the table in front of him.
Oddly, he had a smallish sized picture of Princess Dianne, which he rested against the wall, almost as though Princess Dianna was his dinner companion for the night. He started writing addresses on the envelopes, scribbled little messages on the cards and placed small amounts of money in each card and then placed the cards into the envelopes. He followed this procedure five times, each time smiling sweetly as he scribbled the messages and placed the money inside.
Being an avid people watcher I felt as though I was intruding, but still I couldn’t keep my eyes off the atmosphere created there where the old man sat. I found it quite comforting to watch the old fashioned manner of posting money and sending messages. I wondered if he was sending money to his children or perhaps old relatives who needed a little extra every month.
From my rowdy corner, I quietly shared the enjoyment of the quiet solitude as I discreetly watched over there on the other side of the room…
photo credit: seyed mostafa zamani via photopin cc
What a poignant encounter…you were blessed in a way.
I was. It is a scene somehow etched in my memory.
Thank you, Amos.
*Hugs*
I always wonder when I see someone dining alone. This is a very touching story and so well written. 🙂 Hugs
I also do, thanks so much ad 🙂
*hugs*
Beautiful post my dear friend Thanks so much
Thank you so much, Stefan.
*Hugs*
it is nice to know that some still do the old-fashioned thing; send mail with hand-written notes
I think it might happen far more than we realise 🙂
*Hugs*
Well written hon and lovely post! It felt as if I was sitting right there! 🙂
Thanks for sharing. 😀 *big hugs*
Thank you so much, Sonel 🙂
*Big hugs*
Beautifully written.
Thank you, Colline 🙂
*Hugs*
Nicely done. Where did this unfold?
Thanks so much…this was in France, but in an Italian restaurant.
*hugs*
This was great! I could feel the room you set up so well in just a few words.
Thank you so much, El. 🙂
*Hugs*
What a wonderful story… and so well written… great piece…
Thanks so much, Bulldog 🙂
*Hugs*
I have nominated you for the Super Sweet Blogging Award. Look for the ‘continued’ post at http://mauldinfamily1.wordpress.com
Thanks you so much 🙂
*Hugs*
🙂
Pingback: The Super Sweet Blogging Award Nominees Continued « Mama Bear Musings
I’m visualising as close as I could..
Thank you 🙂
*Hugs*
He must be a “regular” at the restaurant, the table most probably saved just for him
*hugs*
I had the impression he was a regular, especially with the ready table and the warm hug form the owner 🙂
*Hugs*
I love the image and the post, I was sick for awhile and also moved from New Jersey to Georgia! I have been away too long, so very nice to read your words again…blessings and hugs!
So good to see you here again, Wendell. Sorry to hear you were sick, hope you’re feeling much better now and that you have settled in well in Georgia.
*Hugs*
written perfectly- the tone, and mood you create and the timing are perfect
Thank you so much, Melanie.
*Hugs*
Where in France, may ask?
Enjoyed this.
The Diana picture was odd, but real life so often is, not so?
It was in Paris, and you’re right, real life is can be odd, often.
*Hugs*
Never been to Paris. On the two trips I had to Le France it was more down south, Toulouse way.
Have you seen the film, Midnight in Paris?
If not, give it a whirl. It s a delightful movie.
I haven’t seen the movie, sounds interesting 🙂 Will see if I can get my hands on it 🙂
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
My pleasure, thanks for the visit 🙂
*Hugs*