The "Faces of Strangers: #21" Story

Bonita

It was an ordinary day.  That was until the lady popped from between two cars on Cross Street and said "Take my photo!"  I pointed the camera at her and took a shot.  Then another one.  She was dressed in a beautiful orange dress, had a black leather purse over her shoulder, three strands of pearls around her neck, black glasses and an infectious smile across her face.  "And, who might you be?" I asked her.  She walked over to me, extending her hand, and said, "My name's Bonita . . . . . and what is your name?"  I shook her hand and told her my name.  We were both smiling at one another as Carol, my wife, looked on.  "Do you live in Chestertown (Maryland)?" I asked her.  She replied with, "I live in Baltimore now, but I grew up in this town.  I come back often to visit with my family.  I come back to go to church right down the street on the corner."  Carol and I have visited Chestertown many times and on several occasions we have had the chance to walk past the Janes United Methodist Church at 120 South Cross Street when a Sunday service was in session and the windows of the church have been open.  The flavor of the music emanating from within the church was nothing short of amazing.  CHURCH MUSIC WITH A BEAT!  AND, IT WAS LOUD!!  We could see dancing and arms uplifted, swinging in unison to the music and singing.  We had observed mostly African Americans entering the front door.  Often wanted to take a look inside, but never ventured into the church for fear we might not be welcomed.  I told Bonita, "Some time we would love to make a visit during a service."  She got a big smile on her face and said, "We really get the place rocking!!  You got to come and visit sometime.  Everyone would love to have you.  But, you have to rock with us!"  With that she continued on her way as we stared in her direction.  We just might have to take her up on her offer the next trip to Chestertown, MD.  It was another extraordinary day in the life if an ordinary guy.