Intentional eavesdropping can be a rude, perhaps even dangerous, activity. However, when two people are sitting in a hospital waiting room, less than six feet away from each other, and the phone rings…well, eavesdropping can’t really be avoided.
I was at a local hospital for an x-ray appointment on Wednesday, sharing the waiting area with a man who appeared to be in his late 70s, early 80s. The man seemed very tired, leaning back in his chair, dosing on and off. Every once in a while I could hear a gentle snore. There was a woman’s jacket and purse on the chair next to him.
Suddenly, a loud song started playing; a cell phone in the purse demanded attention. The man bolted awake. An inaudible female voice was on the other end. Below is the side of the conversation I was privy to.
Hello.
(other person speaks)
I’m at the hospital, waiting for your mother. She’s having an MRI.
(other person speaks)
We don’t know, yet. They’re checking her out real good. Trying to figure out why she’s coughing so much.
(other person speaks)
Well, after we’re done we’re gonna go to Bob Evans. We’re gonna celebrate.
(other persons speaks)
Well, we’re still alive!
(other person speaks)
OK. I’ll tell her. She’ll call you later. Bye.
Clearly, something is wrong for this couple. The man’s wife is coughing too much. So much so that the doctor ordered an MRI. It could be serious.
But, with the wisdom of a life long lived, they are going to celebrate after the medical tests. Because, well, they are still alive. And, that is worth celebrating, isn’t it?
How will you celebrate being alive today?
