To My 86-Year-Old Client

Dear Client,

Admittedly, I was nervous about our appointment. I know that your body cannot handle the kind of massage I prefer to give, simply because older bodies tend to me more fragile than those of well-trained athletes. But I refuse to let my preference for working out a rehabbed shoulder girdle get in the way of learning something from every client. So I met you with an open mind.

And let me tell you, our session was one of my favorites to date.

You are not the kind of client to bliss out, maybe snooze a little, only respond to my voice when it's absolutely necessary. No, you wanted to spend the whole time getting to know each other. You asked me a thousand questions at least. Normally, I only give out bare-minimum answers. Yesterday, I decided to be a human as well as a massage therapist, and offer conversation right back.

Turns out, you were quite interested in who I am as a person. All in one hour, you learned where I'm from, told me my high school has a great hockey team this year, learned where I've been, told me your granddaughter is also pursuing performing arts professionally. You learned where I've traveled to, where I've lived, jobs I've had. You learned what I aspire to, and then stopped me in my tracks when you asked, "Well, what are you doing now to help you start your business?" I decided to be honest, and I told you that I have commitment-phobia, I'm not sure where to put it yet. The silence following my statement was perhaps the longest time we spent without words - you reflected on my answer. Finally, you assured me that I was still young, and there was nothing wrong with continuing to travel and learn because those are some of the best things you can do in life.

Even though you haven't spent much time with me, lived more than one hour of my life with me, you still managed to acknowledge, accept, and encourage me. You caused me to reflect on the fact that I am actually a pretty cool person, which I have my doubts about sometimes. You comforted me without knowing it, having offered kind words about the way I choose to live while I feel that most of the rest of the world I know can't relate. And I appreciate that in all of this, you did not offer unsolicited advice about what I should do. You simply let me be.

I would like to grow up to be like you when I'm 86 and looking for a massage therapist to help with some minor aches and pains. You are such fun to talk with, and I appreciate your kindness and reassurance that I am doing just fine. If I'm boarding a plane to Central America two days after a massage like you are, I will know I've made it.

Thank you for stepping in to my life, I hope we meet again.

Sincerely,
an awe-struck LMT

Comments

  1. What a beautiful reflection on your day! It's amazing what happen when we are open to the people who pass through our days. I'm glad for your experience. Love you, cool neice.

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