I do the Stupidest Things Sometimes
This past weekend my daughters had a basketball game. And, since we also planned a small party for my daughter’s 14th birthday afterwards, my wife asked me if I minded running to Walmart to pick up some cake plates before the game started. Like a good husband I thought it was a good idea.
So, after dropping my wife and daughters off at the high school, I went to Walmart. It wasn’t crowded, so I was able to get the plates and get out of there in record time. “I should be back before the tip-off,” I thought to myself. While standing in the checkout line, I glanced at some magazine covers and there, on the cover of the February 2008 issue of O: The Oprah Magazine, was an article, Tell Your story! A Top Novelist Show You How. I had to have it! So, I paid for the magazine and the plates and practically skipped out to the car … I love buying books and magazines! (grin)
Anyway, on the way back to the game I realized that I had spent my admission money on Oprah’s magazine. Now what? Not even an ATM nearby. If I want to go back to Walmart I’d miss the tip-off. So, I did what any self-respecting man would do. I rummaged through the car hoping to find another dollars worth of change so that I could get into the game. I searched every nook and cranny. Nothing. I could not find a single penny!
I knew that my wife had cash. So, a little embarrassed, I asked the young man working the ticket counter if I could go get some money from my wife, who’s already been admitted, to pay for my ticket. He smiled and said that it would be okay.
I made it back for the tip-off! It was a close game too.
As for the article in O, novelist Wally Lamb doesn’t reveal any profound new writing wisdom. He does reinforce some solid writing truths however. Like, “In writing, as in life, voice is crucial … imitate no one. Your uniqueness – your authenticity – is your strength.” If you get a chance pick up a copy, it’s worth reading.
Oh, my daughter’s team won the game: 24-23.
Until next time…
No day without a line.
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