My Edinburgh Festival Fringe Date
We had a great time last night.
All dressed up, my daughter appeared through the front door in time to advise me to keep my jacket unbuttoned. (Not this jacket, a pink one).
‘You are aiming for smart casual, right?’ I was grateful for her advice, and for confirmation that I passed muster, as I flew up and down the stairs, waiting for the cab. (Getting into town in my own car, in the evening in the midst of Edinburgh Festival Fringe Frenzy, is not to be contemplated.) Aware they are much in demand, taxis whizz in and out of the city centre like maniacs, like bears hoping to catch the autumn salmon migration from the river, before the quietness of September and the pre-Christmas austerity of October.
However, I digress.
The staff at the Venue helpfully said I was early, and then – joy of joys – my sister came, to keep me company, she said, and to help, and to be there. Given that she would be home late, I was especially touched by her generosity. Martha has always been so kind, and often in ways that I feel I don’t deserve. So, anyway, she and another Quaker friend visiting from Canada, went up to our event space and sat quietly for fifteen minutes. The room was set out with two long rows of chairs facing the windows. Aware of my mother’s urging to caution, I was quite prepared to speak to a select group of two, when the organiser came and mumbled something about letting the crowd in now, maybe?
Oh, are there others? Yes, and they had been waiting patiently to be admitted at seven. Every seat set out for the purpose was taken, that I could see. Blinking in delighted astonishment, I bade them welcome and thought, ‘OK girl, do your thing…’ so I read a few excerpts, and then we had a most – most – interesting and wide ranging discussion.
One of the most useful questions, was, ‘So, what should I do, if someone falls over and I want to help them?’ I answered something like, ‘If you would like to help, do so from your heart…and if you are rebuffed, (which you might be, remembering how embarrassed and sore I used to feel when I fell) don’t take it personally.’
This morning, I realise, it is easier than that. If someone falls over, don’t ask, ‘Are you all right?’ (Which I have done too….it trips off the tongue with almost no thought.) Instead, ask, ‘Is there anything I can do to help?’ Then see what happens.
Thank you so much to Venue 40, the Quaker Meeting House, for making our evening such a success. Without the support, faith and friendship of our Quaker community, I would still be sitting in the armchair under the window, wondering what to do with my life.
Bless you all, and thanks for reading.
Please share:
Diane M Dickson
August 28, 2015 @ 1:22 pm
Oh many many congratulations Fran – I am so glad that the evening was a success and more especially that you seem to have enjoyed it yourself. I am sure it will keep popping back into your mind over and over in the next few weeks – let it – enjoy it – bask in it – it is so very well deserved. I am smiling happily at the thought of it all. (((hugs)))
Fran Macilvey
August 28, 2015 @ 1:57 pm
YAYAY! Thanks so much, Diane. You see? Your distance telepathy is so effective.
I’m off to London next Thursday to take part in a Podcast. Could you send me some more lovely vibes for that? XXXX 😀
Elouise
August 29, 2015 @ 2:16 am
What a wonderful evening! I’m so sad I couldn’t be there in body. I’ve been wondering how it all went–your report is wonderful! I love the little details about nervousness, proper way to wear your jacket, sister and friend being there, etc. etc. Thanks for the blow-by-blow account. Much appreciated. As are you!
Love and hugs,
Elouise
Fran Macilvey
August 29, 2015 @ 4:04 pm
Thank you so much, Elouise, you are an angel. XXXX