Do you remember?

Do you remember my first words to you? I do.

Do you remember your first words to me? I do.

On a day I hadn’t expected to laugh. To giggle. To smile from ear to ear. You showed up. Out of nowhere.

On a day that didn’t feel hopeful, but manageable. Stay busy. Get outside. Exercise. Surround yourself with people. Build community.

I remembered your introduction. You remembered mine. I didn’t remember the others’. Did you?

You had the brightest smile. The best smile. I noticed right away, but tried not to look too long. I didn’t want you to get the wrong idea.

You know what I loved most? You were curious. You wanted to know more. And that worked because I love to talk. I almost couldn't control myself.

You made me feel interesting. Funny. Funnier than normal.

You talked a lot too. Your humor was a little more subtle. Quietly witty.

Me: I hate umbrellas.

You: Do you like to be wet?

I saw what you did there. My first lesbian joke.

An hour and a half later, it was time to go. I didn’t know how to wrap it up. And you didn't either.

You shook my hand. I made sure I knew your name. And you knew mine.

For the first time, we were face-to-face instead of side-by-side. I took it in. I will never forget.