In Other Words with Dave

Alison and I enjoy scrolling through the news with our morning coffee. A few weeks ago, she was deep into an article about President Jimmy Carter’s remarkable century-long life. She mused aloud, “Wow, 100 years.” I paused mid-sip, equally puzzled and flattered. I gave her a look and asked, “What did you just say?” She repeated— this time slower, with increased volume—“WOW…100… YEARS.” (Married guys of a certain age, you’re probably familiar with this type of delivery). I laughed. “Oh, I thought you said, ‘Wow, I love your ears.’” 

Now, we’ve exchanged some quirky compliments before, but “I love your ears” cracked us up and has become our go-to when we need a smile. Alison reassures me that love is all about interpretation— and if I choose to hear oddly sweet compliments in our ordinary conversations, so be it. It’s these little moments, these accidental laughs, that make a hundred years feel possible. 

Love is patient, love is kind—and sometimes, love needs hearing aids.