About 3 years ago, it was Christmas eve. I couldn't go home for the Holidays, so my other friends that were stuck here in Florida b/c of work and I went out on the town. Everyone was dancing and having a great time as I was as as well ( having a good time ), when we walked into one specific night club and I met some new people.
Well, if any of you know me, I talk to everyone. I was a little scared to talk to my neighbor because he had more piercing's than I could count. This was a young gentleman in his late 20's. Somehow we struck up a conversation and I asked him what possessed him to put that many needles through his eyebrow's, etc...he said...I did this all over a bet. He was well spoken, well dressed, and was trying to get into Real Estate...
He had a very sad past...his father left his home when he was merely 3 years old. His brother's got into all kinds of trouble and his mother was not supportive. I was enjoying this persons view on life, on the other hand...I was slightly leary. I said, "You know, nothing personal, but why don't you get rid of those piercing's now??? Do you need them anymore?"
I felt by his honesty, that he needed a friend. He was drinking O'Doul's...while his two other friends were having a few beers...he was the "designated driver". That told me a little about him...
I gave him my business card...office number...nothing personal...you probably know where I am going with this...
I didn't hear from him, nor did I call him (ever) for about 6 months. He called me one day and told me he removed all the piercing's and he valued our conversation. He has become a friend. As my oldest daughter is 8 year's younger than this (what has turned out to be a fine young individual) man, he has become a good friend. He call's me to see how I am, and offer's to help me if I need it.
I had not talked to him for a few month's and was happy to see he had a great new girlfriend who was an attorney and all was going well for him.
When he called me tonight, he said, "Karen, I took your advice, I'm by myself, I need to reflect and figure out my life." I said all the good things. I really needed some lifting help to clean out my guest room as my parents (doing OK right now are going to try to fly down to visit :-) )are going to try and visit...
Shock to me...he said, "Well, I can help you Sunday afternoon after church." I said, "Church?" He said, "Yes, I took your advise and I went to church, wanna come with?"
I am so happy that I didn't go on a first impression, that I made a difference in someone's life...that he learned that there are good people that you can rely on as a friend...I AM, going to go to his church with him Sunday!
He will be a great Real Estate agent...it's taken some time, but than heavens, the saying is true..."You cannot judge a book by the cover!"
Have YOU ever been in a situation like this before? If you have, what did you do?..did you ignore them?, did you talk to them?, did you give them the benefit of the doubt? Did you give them a chance?
http://www.KarenMonsour.com, cell 954-464-4194, www.KarenMonsour.com
;)
;)
