All The Parties

Reading widely, and remembering what you have read, can be very disconcerting to many. Particularly when coupled with a generous spirit (that’s me) that wants to share what they have been reading, and offer it up to others (with the possibility to hear alternative ideas from them). Many think it strange the wide and various fields I show interest in, but I suppose, that should also be an indication to me, they are not interested in the information. This is one of my problems. For example, at work or elsewhere, when I have just read about a new field of scientific research (and that can be anything from quantum particles to epi-genetics) and there is a person whom I want to share the ideas with, to see what they think about it. At work, they listen politely for a moment, then walk away to their tasks. Or look stunned and shake their heads (various recommendations to increase my medication may also be made - ha ha). If this situation was a party situation, in about two seconds their eyes would glaze over, they would start looking about the room for an alternative conversation (usually to do with the latest league sports or fishing trip) and start making motions sideways towards that conversation instead.

A classic indicator, I had noticed on several occasions was the rapid glancing down to their drink, often partially filled (remember, a glass is always full. It can be partially filled with liquid and the remainder is completely filled with air), regretting they may have just refilled their glass before accidentally encountering the conversation with me. Before giving in and deciding that rapid consumption of the glasses contents, will give them an excuse to move away for a refill, and forget to return (could I be partly responsible for some peoples binge drinking?). I get it. I really do. It took a while, but now I am very aware of it. Hence I have stopped going out to social functions. This was the easiest of options. I have tried and found myself uncomfortable in these situations. Another interesting side effect I discovered was this; if at a party, and knowing I didn’t drink, and that I would probably remember everything that is said, done or seen, put many people on edge. Particularly those who would consume too much alcohol. So, I am happy not to go and they are happy not to see me. They still offer the invite, but imagine the slight panic that passes across their faces, if I actually suggest that I will accept the invitation?

So, the moment of quietness that Mr Walsh had asked for, as he prepared to reprimand me for taking the money from ‘E’ and ‘K’ arrived (see blog January 31^st 2013). I sat at the desk with tears on my cheeks. The sound of all the children outside carried clearly to us. I was ashamed. I was also fearful of what was to come. Public humiliation. Shame before the whole school. Then Mr Walsh explained something. “The money from ‘E’ and ‘K’ was found in the playground and returned to them.” I didn’t think I had heard him correctly. I looked up quizzically.

(Continued tomorrow)