By During my presidential fellowship year, I made lifelong friends. Some of those became part of my chosen family. I met Dwayne when I was trying to hide, against the wall, in our hotel hallway before meeting, yet, more Washington elites during the first conference. I’ve never been great at small talk, and I needed a breather.
Dwayne walked right up and introduced himself. I was immediately soothed by his southern accent because it sounded a lot like home. I was instantaneously drawn in by his confidence. I thought I wish I had that. I’ll never forget the conversation that followed our introductions.
“What are you doing over here all by yourself?” I needed a breather. “From what?” The small talk. I’m so bad at it. I’m too awkward. “Not from what I see. You’re doing great!” I politely said thank you, but my eyes must have given me away (like always). “Don’t do that.” Do what? I asked in what I hoped was a casual manner. “Dismiss the compliment I meant to give you.” I gave him a slight grin. “You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t very smart…none of us would be.” I know, but it’s hard knowing people see my chair before they see me. “No, they don’t… not after talking to you for about five seconds.” This time he got a full on grin. “You ready for more?” Another deep breath, and a yeah. “Come on, rock star. Let’s do this.” I whispered together. He heard me. “Yeah, I got you. Come on. ” Okay, Dwayne, let’s go.
Before we left to go home: we all swapped contact information. Between getting home, in early November, and the second conference in March of the next year: Dwayne and I had many in-depth conversations and found out we had lots in common. Our mutual admiration and respect has only grown, in the years, since. He’s one of the most: authentic, kindest, and brilliant, souls I have the pleasure to know and very easy to love. Every time he knows I need a break (from anything): he’ll push me to go have fun. Rock star glam is always implied when he does. Rock star glam means: full make-up, cute outfit, and styled hair. Over the years, it has morphed into utilization when I need courage as well. It is a joy to be his friend, fellow political scientist, and fellow nerd. It is my absolute privilege get to be his chosen sister, however.
Great post and uplifting story. It sounds like the world could use a lot more people like Dwayne! 🙂
Thanks so much! The world could definitely use more people like Dwayne in it.
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