Ah. So that's what it's all about....

'Going "large" for my aging friends and for my own eyes. . I awoke early this morning mid-thought about how my life has both prepared me and previewed where I was headed. That whole "nature/nurture" thing.
My earliest memory was of life on the west side of Grand Rapids, Michigan, over off of West Fulton on Lexington Street.  It's hard to know how much of these memories is rumor, hand-me-down stories, or true memories from the vault of a childhood. I remember walking around the corner from our two story house to visit some of the businesses on Fulton. On our street there were only home along with the Lexington School , and a fire station. But, on West Fulton, a few blocks across the Grand River from downtown Grand Rapids where the tall buildings were, there were small shops, restaurants, and maybe a neighborhood store or two. My favorite place was a pawn shop or "junk store" owned by a guy, I remember as "Adam."  I used to toddle over there when I was around two or three and just hang out. I can't imagine what I did to entertain the people there, but I was always welcomed. It seemed like there was a small grill next door as well. Someone in one of the places always rewarded me with candy or gum if I let them kiss me. At least that is the way I remember it.
So, if you want to explore the surface influence of this experience, you could point to my life long sweet tooth. Or if you want to go a bit deeper, you could suggest that I learned early that affection came at a cost. Or maybe even; "Bribery makes the heart grow fonder." 

But, I think what I learned was that I was comfortable meeting folks, talking with people, and venturing out into the world beyond my sanctuary. I guess I developed some sense of direction as well, because I always found my way home. It was only a half a block or so.
So, had hints and rewards. Look back. Look forward. Look within.
Tomorrow; The girl on the porch and the lady at the DMV.