The Noticer.

"So how did you know my name?' "No big deal, really," he shrugged. "I've been watching you for a long time. I've been around." I watched him for a moment, considering his answer, then slowly nodded and retreated into the darkness for a Coke. Returning with two cans, I handed one to the old man. Popping the top, Jones shifted in the sand and crossed his legs. "all right," he said, taking a long pull from the red can, " let's get started. "Get started...what?" I asked flatly, Jones set the can on the sand and said. "We need to start noticing a few things. We need to check your heart. We need to gather a little perspective." "I don't even know what you are talking about," I said. "And I don't know who you are." "Fair enough," he smiled. "well, let me see now... How do I explain?" He leaned toward me quickly. "as for who I am, call me Jones... "I am a noticer," he said. "I notice things that other people overlook. And you know, most of them are in plain sight." The old man leaned back on his hands and cocked his head. "I notice things about situations and people that produce perspective. THat's what most folks lack - perspective -- a broader view. So I give them that broader view... and it allows them to regroup, take a breath, and begin their livers again."