We didn’t see scorn coming…

Years ago at a conference, our chummy DC contingent of friends strolled a town south by southwestern sun. Conversation bulged with laughter and rainbows of perspective.

An uninvited passerby neared our group, his kindness bricked far beneath. He then flared a one-word insult in sneer + racial hate.

“For real?!” …our slim response blended with surprise and then disregard.

Strolling began anew with collective mood well-cobbled in mirth and free spirits.