Here Comes What's His Name

It is always good to see old friends. However, this pleasant experience is not without it's challenges. Have you ever seen someone looking your way smiling as if they know you and yet you don't have a clue who they are? Well, that happens to me more than I would like. This weekend, my wife and I are in Gatlinburg at an event with a lot of people we have met and known over the years. So, there are times when someone walks up to us and I have to confess I know them from somewhere, but certainly can not call their name. But, there is some good news. As you know, at most conventions one of the things you get at registration is a name tag. And again, let the games begin.

Most of these name tags are hung from the neck by a small thin like cord. These cords tend to twist, and most of the time leave the person's name pointing in the wrong direction. Or, the name is pointing right at you, but with age the ability to read the name becomes less of a possibility. And of course, penmanship is a whole other issue. Quite frankly, some people simply have a hard time using a Sharpie and printing their name so that others can read it.

And then, just before you embarrass yourself, the clouds break and the name becomes clear. You stretch out your hand, and with a big smile you call the person by name and begin your conversation.