Meeting Country Singer Lee Ann Womack

I have been a fan of Lee Ann Womack ever since her debut album, "Lee Ann Womack" was released in the summer of 1997. One of country music's leading ladies, Womack has not only been blessed with a beautiful voice, but she also seems as down-to-earth as the girl next door.

One early Friday morning in August, 2002, a local radio station announced that Ms. Womack would be appearing on Sunday at the Wal-Mart in Springfield, Virginia. In the Washington area, August is brutally hot, with stifling humidity. For medical reasons, venturing out into the summer heat is not a frequent occurrence for me. Being the smart lady that God blessed me as being, the logical part of me certainly knew better than to spend a hot Sunday afternoon in line for hours waiting for an autograph from one of my favorite singers.

Meeting Ms. Womack would be a dream come true for the transplanted Georgia peach in me, the lady who still takes joy in the simple things. Armed with cold water and snacks, I excitedly boarded my cab and headed for Wal-Mart. Although it was a Sunday, traffic moved at a snail's pace. The twenty minute trip seemed like it was taking an eternity.

At last, we pulled into the Wal-Mart. "Wake up! We're here," my driver announced. Looking out the window of the cab, I could hardly believe my eyes. The line for autographs was so long that it was wrapped around the full-length of the building. I was undeterred as I hurriedly exited the cab.

"I'll be fine," I assured my driver, as he hesitantly left me alone to take my place in line with the hundreds of fellow fans in attendance. Throughout my life, I have been amazed by the kindness of strangers. This was no exception. Many of the people who were ahead of me in line were kind enough to move so my wait was shorter.

After three hours, I finally reached the front of the line. Ms. Womack came out. When she noticed I was in a wheelchair, she stepped out from behind the autograph table.

"Hi, Ms. Womack." I said, as I nervously handed her my CD.

"Hi, what's your name?" she asked.

"Amanda," I answered. "It's great to meet you. You have such a beautiful voice, and I've been a big fan of yours since you started."

Ms. Womack smiled at me. "Thank you, Amanda. I count my blessings everyday," she said. "It means so much that you came out today."

"Thanks for your time," I said, leaving the autograph line. Ms. Womack was genuine and never lost touch with who she was. No matter your direction or level of success in life, always be true to who you are!