A sunny winter morning dawned, about a week after Potential Cyclone 8 flooded the Carolina coast, and the water was still deep.
The damage to local roads had kept us close to home for too long, but this beautiful day called for a communion with nature at Waccamaw State Park, the perfect spot to stretch our legs without getting our feet wet.
We'd barely begun our walk through the flooded swampland, and already, the forest canopy, lush and towering, closed in around us. Ms. Wonder walked ahead of me, closely surveying the terrain. She was undoubtedly wary of the danger posed by spiders, bees, and snakes. I know I was.
"Be sure to look down and all around before you look over," she said in a tone as steady as her steps.
Her suggestion stopped me in my tracks, like one of those kids in fairy tales who turn to stone immediately after mocking a wizard.
I don't know how she does it. No matter the location, the situation, or the circumstances, this wonder-working woman comes up with the right assessment at the right time. She never fails to amaze me.
And yet, something was amiss. I can't explain it, but her words of wisdom caused me to feel lacking in some way. It was the feeling one might have if standing in front of the Great Throne of Judgement with the judge stroking his beard and saying, "Hmmmm."
What was needed, I thought, to put the chi energy back in balance and restore serenity was an equally pithy quotable from me. Well, you know how it is when a snappy rejoinder is called for, and you have precious little time to compose one. Still, the Genomes are always willing to try, so I did the best I could under the circumstances.
"Remember," I said. "Where there is one, there are others. And if there are others, there are many." And I felt pretty bucked about it, too.
She reacted by assuming a look that I couldn't decipher. Was she impressed? Puzzled? Offended?
Do you think it was harsh? I hope not. I didn't mean it to be harsh. I was going for something equally as pithy as hers without seeming competitive.
I was reminded of the moment in Wicked when Elphaba and Glinda part ways, each unsure if they’ve said too much or too little. It’s something we can all relate to, I'm sure.
It was a full week after Potential Cyclone 8 and the Carolina coast was still soaked—with water and wisdom alike.
I may always defer to Ms. Wonder's moral compass, but your insights are much appreciated. Leave your thoughts in the comments.