We share a history, Lorna and I.
Can you imagine washing and blow-drying a client’s hair when that person is in pain from head to toe? When you’re trying to cut her hair but she can barely move her neck? When that person can’t sit for longer than a few minutes at a time?
A hairdresser could go broke with clients like me. So my appointments are always at her quiet times. And I sometimes bring her a small gift to show my appreciation.
This time, it was a copy of my new book.
~~
As Lorna tended to my hair, I asked if she wanted me to read a chapter of the book.
“This chapter is about you,” I said, smiling at her in the mirror. “That okay?”
“Of course!” she said.
But part-way through, Lorna turned away.
I felt awful.
“I’m so sorry, Lorna,” I said, closing the book. “I didn’t mean to make you cry.”
“No, no!” She replied, wiping her eyes. “Keep reading! Please!”
It was an order, not a suggestion.
~~
Lorna knows our back-stories. Some of her clients are stars — in business, the professions, film, TV and music. Most aren’t. Lorna remains humble, respectful to us all.
~~
“Sure you want me to keep reading?” I asked.
“Keep reading!” she said.
So I read and Lorna quietly cried.
When the chapter ended, Lorna was smiling – a weepy but radiant smile. I smiled back at her face in the mirror, weepy too.
“I never expected anyone to put me in a book,” she said, shaking her head at the wonder of it.
Bless you, dear Lorna.
~~
Cynthia Reyes 