This July I celebrated two Independence Days; one for the USA and the other for me.

Yesterday I realized that you just can’t please everybody – no matter what you do.  Now you’re thinking, “But Frances everybody knows that.”  Well, I was just hoping to be that one magical person who could please all the people all the time.  And after over four decades of breaking my back trying – I am officially done.

It was late afternoon when the epiphany took place.  The 90 plus degree temperatures had rendered the AC just about useless.  I was trying to trying to clean up a fast moving spill, and salty sweat was getting in my eyes.  The telephone rang.  The Caller ID  indicated it was someone who wants a big favor.  But here’s the thing; they want my time and personal property for use completely on their terms.  I answered with;  Call you back in two minutes.

The spill cleared, I applied a cold cloth to my face, took a deep breathe and dialed.  They immediately launched into their speil, and I listened patiently – as always.  Seems they were anxious to get going on this, and wondered what all the delay was about. Uh, I have a life don’t I? I quietly wondered to myself.

Again in case you missed any of the above; they need my time and personal property for use as a favor. 

So I’m sitting there hot, sweaty and wondering what the hell I called back for.  Then suddenly all I could hear were certain words: I need, I want, you should. After a few seconds all I could hear was the word I over and over again like a whiny mantra.

And the I became faster, louder and my head began to pound.  A pulsating bright green I appeared on my mind’s screen.  It began to get larger and louder filling my skull. 

STOP! my inner scream was so loud and long that the giant I simply shrank and crawled away.

A split second later my own physical voice told the party at the other end that my free time was pretty much tied up for a while.  I mentioned a mutual acquaintance who might be able to help.

Their answer: But they’re going to want money. 

My answer?  Really? Well how about that.  Gotta go.  We’ll talk – soon. 

Till later my dears