old soul
I saw this little girl, about seven, on the subway. Her mom was sleeping beside her. She was surveying the people in the car with a calm and wit that belied her age. Some people might identify her as an “old soul.” Each time the car pulled into a station she would turn and look at what was going on out on the platform, then return her attentions to her neighbours in the seats around her.
It was one of those mornings when the car was quiet – all of the passengers into themselves, nodding off, sipping coffee, rolling through BlackBerry messages, reading the newspaper; a collection of sleepy-eyed commuters easing themselves into a day in silence. The absence of chatter makes a ride like this seem as if we’re suspended in time for a few moments before city life whirls itself back into your consciousness.
Behind her cute little wire rimmed glasses the girl watched people; still, hands in her lap, and a slight curl to her lip that indicated a confidence in her perspective.
I wondered where her mind was taking her; I wondered if she would always observe her world in this thoughtful way. I wondered if she might grow up to be a writer or an artist, taking inspiration from her world around her always.
published in the beautiful Bella Grace!
what a beautiful observation. as always.
Thank you my friend! I hope all is well with you. Let’s get together soon!
This was a delight to read as I ate my lunch. Thank you.
Well thanks for saying so Lisa.
Really enjoyed this slice of life, Jennifer and yes, I do think she will become someone creative.
I enjoyed this moment of silence too. I was there in that place as you described it. You capture moments so well that I always manage to experience them through your words. Now that is good writing! 🙂
Thanks Kat – and glad you concur!
Thanks Susannah – I’m honoured you should say so. :o)
I see a mother’s caretaker having to be hypervigilant because there is no one to protect her. Will she ever have the time in her caretaking life to make art?
Oh, what an original take on the scene QS! I hope she doesn’t have to spend ALL her life caretaking!
I like it that she was quietly and calmly observing life; a gentle old soul indeed.
Yes Marilyn, a lovely and gentle little thing she was.
wonderful,
I could so see her,
feel her,
know her a little too:)
Thanks for saying so Deb!
Wouldn’t it be amazing if she did grow up to be a writer? It is nice to think of a child paying attention to detail like that. You described her so well.
It is nice to think about, isn’t it?