The People You Know

It struck me today that, in the words of Dickens, "A wonderful fact to reflect upon, that every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other." This was clear to me when I finally had the opportunity to have a real and prolonged conversation with a member of our Social Studies department here at the high school. I've always known that Mr. Bailey is an incredibly intelligent man, but I've never taken the time to really sit down and talk with him.

During my prep period today we spoke of everything from Medicare to the war in Iraq. It was probably the best forty minutes I have spent in a while. So many times we skip by those around us and never bother to contemplate the mystery of each other. For example, I never knew that Jim's son Pete was in Desert Storm or that he had been able to spend some time on a carrier with his son. Learning details like these make me appreciate those who live their lives around me even more.

What hidden secrets lurk below the surface of those who walk these halls each and every day? Often those secrets are really nothing more the details of an ordinary life, but therein lies the problem. If we don't take the time to discover those ordinary details, then how can we expect others to take an interest in the life we lead? If we become more human through our interactions with others, then we owe it to ourselves to find out those details and attempt to solve the "profound mystery" that is our existence.

I am so grateful for my conversation with Jim today. I learned about his life, and he learned about mine. When we finished our conversation I believe both of us felt a little bit lighter and more ready to take on the rest of the day. Jim thanked me for the talk today and said it was "fun," but I owe him a great deal as well. Thank you, Jim, for a prep period well-spent.