SPARTA, MO — A phenomenal phenomenon occurred July 18 in the Christian County Library Sparta Community Branch.
A candidate forum was underway, hosted by the Christian County Trumpet and sponsored by Papa John’s and Village Inn.
As usual, the back rows were packed, people were standing along the walls behind the back row and on the sides, and even blocking the entrance to the community room.
Just like church, the front row was empty, save for one seat on the aisle. Unlike church, that seat was occupied by a silver ponytailed Desert Storm vet, with a service dog at his feet as if guarding the front row from any intruders.
A minor miracle happened
Then, a family arrived. Being the host, I saw them from my standing position at the front. I motioned for them to come in. A man, woman and two girls. No place to sit. Hardly a place to stand. Except… yes. Yes! She’s doing it! The mom pushed through the crowd, past the intimidating dog and vet guard, leading her two young daughters in tow. She sits RIGHT NEXT to doggie vet, allowing room for her two daughters and one remaining front row seat for hubby, who opted to be like everyone else in the universe and stand awkwardly by the side table.
Kuddos to mama. She deserves the Red Badge of Courage.
“The bravest woman in the world just showed up,” I blurted, interrupting the speaker and pointing out that she had broken the barriers of social norms.
I proudly took the final seat on the front row reserved for her husband, since he wasn’t going to come forth and risk the scrutiny of the crowd of unarmed Spartans.
Afterwards, the woman approached me. “I read all your stuff,” she gushed. (No wonder she’s so courageous!) Blushing, I quickly turned the conversation to more important things. “Mike Moon’s mustache is amazing, isn’t it?” I ventured.
“Oh yes,” the Bravest Woman in the World replied. “It’s perfect.”
“I would totally see him as a detective in a movie,” I continued. “And those white shirts; he looks like a Senator.”
“Oh, I know,” the Bravest Woman agreed. “So crisp.”