Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Time for Joe

You never know whats around the corner.

Last Friday, as I looked for a place to sit in the Huie Library to do a little research, it was no surprise that there was no seat available whatsoever.

I dragged my feet and swore under my breath because I would be late in turning in my assignment.

As I approached the door, I suddenly realized there were two additional computers in a small nook near the circulation desk.

With my hopes up, I hurried to see if I could be lucky enough to find a vacant desk.

I peered around the corner, only to see someone sitting there in the tiny space. I cursed to myself again, thinking that someone else knew of my last resort; then, at a second glance, I saw someone who looked hauntingly familiar to one of my best friends.

That cant be him, I told myself. I havent seen or heard from him in six years. (Yes, I manage to slip in a few audible conversations with myself on a regular basis)

I decided to have a closer look, so I went ahead and sat next to him in the now-crammed study area. He didnt bother making any glances in my direction; but I made sure to look at him from the corner of my eye.

I glanced at his monitor periodically to see what he was watching on YouTube to discover that, if the guy next to me was not who I thought him to be, he sure has a lot in common with my old pal.

I quickly finished my work and worked up the courage to ask him his name. If its not him, My left brain told my right brain, Ill just use the old, Oh, sorry  you look like someone I know.

Just before I stood, I asked the guy, Whats your name?

He looked at me for a split second before startling the entire library with a loud, JOE! IS THAT YOU?

He didnt recognize me at first, for my Grizzly Adams beard was something I did not yet have in high school. We said our hellos, exchanged phone numbers and decided to hang out sometime and catch up on the six-year void of our friendship.

So, take your time and look around the corner. You never know what or who you may find.