Thursday’s weather could not have been more wonderful for the first day of February 2024. My afternoon walk was both enjoyable and comfortable. Next door, at the high school’s campus and athletic fields, several of the spring athletic teams were taking advantage of this fine weather. It was just so damned good to see sunshine again after two weeks of gray skies, and a majority of the days filled with rain.

Yesterday, I was chatting with someone regarding “being prepared.” I have a low tolerance for those who are not prepared and who hold up others in a process. I see it too often at the bus stops with new riders not having their payment cards or phones ready with the QR code. They can see the bus coming but it doesn’t occur to them to have their payment system ready when they step onto the bus; therefore, the bus driver waits until they forage through their pockets, backpacks, or purses to locate their card. It’s rude and inconsiderate. The same goes for those not having payment ready when at the cashier’s station. Really? You are in line for the transaction. For God’s sake, be prepared for your payment. I am very forgiving for parents/individuals with young children or those who struggle with other issues.

I suggested that “being prepared” should also apply to “being on time.” They are pretty much the same thing. I see this a good deal with many individuals attending a show. There is no sense of urgency for being on time or being in one’s seat for the start of the concert or production. Too many are focused on having a drink and/or snack before entering an auditorium even when they know there is only a moment before starting time. Their lack of preparedness and their casual attitude and behaviors then become an issue for their fellow audience members and it’s rude to the performers.

Mother was a stalwart about being early so that we were on time. She came by it honestly as her dad, Grandpa Leroy, was always, always early. If church began at 10:30 AM, we were there no later than 9:45 AM. This was instilled in me and I raised the sons under the same doctrine of being prepared, and being considerate and courteous of others.

My band director, Paula Simmons, always reminded us that “to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be on late.” Yes. I still follow this mantra, sustained by my mother and grandparents’ teachings. And, if you are going to be late for a meeting with others, let them know. It’s that simple.

Now, I shall not be late in returning to my bed by 7:30 AM. It’s now 7:21 AM, so I shall be early and on time.

Make it a great day!