Warren

 

We pulled into the Hampton Inn in Fredericksburg, Virginia after a grueling 9 hour drive down  the I-95 Road from Hell; NYC, the GW Bridge, major accident delay on the NJ Turnpike and, the finale, the DC I-495 Beltway. I was relieved this leg of the trip was behind us. Never fun.

We were overnighting at our usual spot on our way to Saint Simons Island for some time away from the New England cold and snow. I-95 South from Fredericksburg is a walk in the park; no potholes, no snow, no tolls… although lots of speed traps.

After checking into our room, I wandered next door to the 7-11 for some cold adult beverages and spied him sitting on the curb. It was a cold evening and he was bundled up in a wool hat and hoodie, but his sparkling eyes and wide smile were visible above his long, white beard. He looked like William Lee Golden of the Oak Ridge Boys.

I dropped 4 bits into his plastic cup on the way out and he flashed me a smile. “Hey, thanks! You’re a good guy.” I returned his smile. “Stay warm, brother.”

As I walked back to the hotel, I wondered about him so an hour later I picked up a couple bananas from the hotel and walked over to find him in the same spot. He smiled when he recognized me and as I dropped a buck in the cup. “So what’s your story?” I asked as I sat down on the curb across from him.

“You really want too hear it?” he asked and I nodded.

I passed him the bananas and he beamed.”Cool!”

“Well, my house burned down. Lost my three dogs. Chimney fire. My grandson put me up in the Red Roof Inn, but I just found out I can get Social Security money in June when I turn 65. I’ll be ok.”

“I miss my dogs. I walk dogs during the week at the animal shelter. Keeps me sober”

“Need anything from the store?” I asked.

“Serious?” he replied.

I nodded.

“Pack of cigarettes?”

“What’s your brand?” I asked.

“Kools”

Made me smile and think of my father in law, Joe.

I returned and passed him the smokes. Two banana skins laid on the ground at his feet.

What’s your name?”

“Warren…can I shake your hand?” he replied.

Big hands. Strong grip. Another big smile.

Thanks for the story, Warren. Good luck, brother.