Monday morning I was on my way to meet friends for breakfast at Parc in Center City Philadelphia. 18th Street was blocked off because they were shooting the series Reacher and I had to navigate my way through Rittenhouse Square to the other end of the street. A crew member asked me to wait to enter the restaurant; they were about to shoot a scene. Two police cars took off in front of me, turned and raced down Locust Street. That was some excitement for a Monday morning.
Once seated the waiter greeted us and said, “This is a crazy morning.”
My friend Em and I agreed. “They’re shooting right outside the restaurant!”
He said, “That, and Joe Biden and Jill are here.” He looked up and I followed his gaze to discover Joe Biden standing by the bar. I decided I had to meet him.
I walked over and watched as he spoke with the star of Reacher and took pictures with him and other crew members. A security man stood to his left and Hunter Biden to his right. Hunter looked at me curiously, making sure I was safe for his dad. Once the star left, I walked up to Biden and extended my hand. He held it with a firm grip.
I said, “Mr. President, thank you for getting us out of Covid and making us strong again.”
“Can I hug you?” he asked. I put out my arms. As he let go of me, he said, “It’s going to be okay. We’re going to get her back.”
I said, “We’re America, right? We can do anything.” He smiled.
I walked away with tears in my eyes. It was such a fatherly gesture to comfort me and tell me it was going to be alright. Despite his recent diagnosis of prostate cancer, Biden looked healthy and strong: he was clear-eyed and engaged with me. I was overwhelmed by his kindness. He is a man of service who operates from a place of love and empathy. I’m so glad I took the opportunity to meet him. And grateful to Em for taking pictures.
Susan Barr-Toman 
Wow! What amazing luck you have! I’d give anything to hug Joe Biden! He’s one of the kindest souls on our planet. His presence is always reassuring.
America will be Ok. This rough patch will eventually smooth out, and your very bright future will be back on track. As a Canadian, I know that the spirit of The American People is what defines the true beauty and resilience of your country.
Keep your chins up . . . 😊
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I love your enthusiasm and optimism! We can do anything, right?
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Yes! This period of time unfolding at the moment in your country is undoubtedly heavy and dark. Only a small portion of your total population is on board with this present agenda, even though some would like you to think otherwise. The majority will shine brighter and brighter as time passes, and things will inevitably turn around. It’s written in the stars. Stay focused, and stay strong! 🌟
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This is great, Sue! Also spooky!
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Right? What’s the likelihood of that happening?
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I’m so happy you had this opportunity. I’d give anything to be able to see Joe Biden and to tell him how much I appreciate his leadership, kindness, and wisdom during the last four years. How I miss that!
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Hi! I come to you via London Writers Salon 8 AM Writers’ Hour! What a delightful treat your blog is and I so look forward to reading your works and recommendations. Somehow I missed Ruth Ozeki’s latest novel so I’m off to get it, hopefully from my local public library, just three blocks or so, away!
I am also looking forward to your new book and to continued blog post reads! Have a great writing life and I look forward to sharing it.
Cheers~
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Hi Honoré! Thanks for visiting. LWS 8AM Writer’s Hour is the best! It was nice to “see” you this morning. And to meet a fellow WordPress blogger. I checked out your site and really enjoy your writing and your images. (I have a red Crepe Myrtle.)
I like Ozeki’s Book of Form and Emptiness, but A Tale for the Time Being will always be my favorite.
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