Every Person

Ian Scofield, a publisher who became my best friend in Scotland during winter of 2006-07.

Isle of Mull, Scotland

Every Person

4/16/11

It's a refreshing change

to take notice of surroundings

as if in a foreign country,

then try new restaurant pub

choosing food not usually ordered,

or beer others are drinking at bar

while striking up conversations

by asking question of patrons

on right, left, watching ballgame,

commenting on New Zealand accent

that led to travel talk

comparing his homeland to Scotland,

hearing of hitch-hiking adventures

visiting places I'd love to see

like Scandinavia, the Alps, Europe,

reminded again of the stories

each individual holds inside,

beyond the usual self-talk rut

our daily work routine produces

kept mostly as private domain

not wanting to be embarrassed,

judged, for less than 'proper' thoughts

deemed beneath image we cultivate

in world that values conformity,

instead of the unique character,

sensibilities, and view of every person.