School Bus Stop Chatter

Some Things Never Change

Lee Hansen

While sitting at the local school bus stop with a neighbor's son, I marveled just how much the conversation hasn't changed much among young people of today. And even though it's been years since I was a youngster waiting for the bus, the topics of discussion are the same at the bus stop.

For about 10 minutes it was just he and I waiting for the arrival of the bus.

Little by little children of other neighbors started trickling down the street. They seemed to be resigned to the fact that it was just another school day to get through.

In my observations I saw only one parent sitting in her SUV near the bus stop. Perhaps many parents were already at work or heading there. One girl particularly caught my interest because she was carrying her violin. Boy, do I ever remember trudging my violin back and forth to school. I played it for 13 years.

Somehow the conversation turned to cafeteria food. Most of the students heartily vocalized their displeasure with the nastiness of the food. I asked them what was so bad about it and they gave several responses. They did admit that they had the option of bringing their own lunch. Apparently it wasn't as bad as they let on because no one was carrying a lunch box. It seems like yesterday that my classmates and I were making those same complaints about the cafeteria food.

These students ranged from 1st to 5th grade. They were neat in appearance and very polite. I then began telling them the importance of listening to their teachers and getting good grades in school.

Soon the traditional yellow bus with red lights flashing stopped to gather the children and carry them safely to their destination. I waved at them and bid them a good day.

As I walked back to my house I felt good that I was able to spend a few moments with these children and encourage them. Children are so very impressionable at this age. They know when you genuinely care. These are the children who will be our future leaders. If taking a few moments out of the busyness of life can inspire them, then it is well worth the effort. You never know how far a little hope can take a child.

SOURCE:

Personal experience

Published by Lee Hansen

I am a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. My parents raised 10 children. I have an Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Education.  View profile

18 Comments

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  • Teila Tankersley5/21/2012

    What an awesome mentor you are!!!!!!!!

  • Betty Asphy9/29/2011

    Good for you Lee.

  • Bailey Hinson9/29/2011

    I'm jealous, Lee. I've always wanted to play the violin.

  • Jeanne Baney9/28/2011

    I remember the chatter at my bus stop was very much like this!

  • Delicia Powers9/28/2011

    Very neat story Lee...

  • Mike Powers9/28/2011

    Outstanding! Thanks!

  • T L Wilson9/27/2011

    I remember all too well the cafeteria food!

  • Spy Radio9/27/2011

    My grade school was only five minutes away so I never had to ride the bus.

  • Michele Starkey9/27/2011

    Enjoyable :) Lee - you have such a tender heart and it shows in all you write and share :) cheers!

  • Laura Cone9/26/2011

    cute!

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