It’s an honor to be among some incredibly beautiful, vibrant women. Two such women are Mary and Willie. Here is their story, written from Mary’s perspective:
You may not be aware that there is a Walking Club at Episcopal Homes, established last year with a membership of eight to ten walkers. It is physically, emotionally, and spiritually invigorating to circle Lake Como in the early morning when the sun reflects in sparkling rivulets on the water and even the birds are quietly respectful of this daily miracle. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday I return to Cornelia invigorated and peaceful.
Unfortunately, our group has dwindled over the months. In fact, there are now only a pair of us and our devoted driver, Kristin. Kristin goes one way around the lake and my companion and I go the other. “We must look like a very odd couple to other walkers,” Willie said the other day. I thought to myself how right she was. Willie, who lives at King’s Crossing, is short and elegant, always perfectly groomed, with a chignon such as I have always lusted after, but been too lazy to grow and groom. I, on the other hand, am tall and scruffy and topped by a baseball cap embroidered with the logo “POEM.” Furthermore, it is obvious that Willie irons everything. Her stylish tops and T shirts are in pristine condition. I do not iron anything, let alone my ancient oversized T shirt advertising the Open Book Center.
However, Willie was not referring to our differing styles. “I bet people wonder about that odd couple walking around the lake—a black lady and a white lady picking up trash.” I agreed. “You’re right. You point and I pick up and we never even stop talking.”
We had often lamented the carelessness that leaves trash lying along the paths and even inches from a garbage can. One day I appeared with plastic glove and a bag to put our beliefs into action. Besides the ordinary food containers and bottles and paper, we have gathered two pairs of shoes, three socks, two pacifiers, two T shirt sleeves, one new child’s shoe and other treasures. Four walkers have thanked us. Probably people are getting used to the “odd couple,” and Willie and I enjoy feeling virtuous.
So every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday we do one or two turns around the lake or visit the meditation labyrinth—and pick up trash. We are truly an odd couple as we go once more around the lake.
MEG
