"Hey, aren't you....."

Working for the Williamson Sun & Record as a reporter and columnist has been a great experience for me, one I hope to continue for a very long time.

It has given me priceless windows of exposure which benefit me in many different ways. It helps me sell my books (another one out soon, look for it!) as well as welcoming me into the homes, if not kitchen tables and bathrooms of Wayne County.

Recognition, although miniscule in the big picture of life, was something I always wanted and strove hard to achieve. I wanted people to know me and to be interested in whatever I wrote, no matter what form.

Of all the places, however, that I DID NOT want to be recognized, was the Ontario Town Court. I had received a speeding ticket going west on Route 104, and the jurisdiction was Ontario’s. [Side bar: that Route 104 is a killer, I never got a ticket until I moved here at age 50! Way to go, New York State Troopers! NOT!]

I sent in the ticket and waited for the invoice for the fine. I never received one, and snarkily chalked it up to “Well, maybe they cut me a break – after all, I AM Eileen Loveman.”

Foolish mortal that I am, I actually was surprised when I received a Notice of Suspension in the mail, because I hadn’t paid the fine.

Sheepishly approaching the counter of the clerk on Monday, I had hoped to pay my [ouch!] $150 fine and be done with it, and no one would be the wiser.

But the Gods of Humility were no where to be seen that day.

“Hey!” said a smiling male face behind the counter.

“I know you! Aren’t you the woman who writes for the paper?”

Oh, Nooooo!

Putting my head down and not making eye contact I answered softly “Ummmm, yes, I am.”

“Hey!” he said to a female co-worker and grabbed her by the elbow to get a good look at me.

“Look who it is! It’s that girl!”

Another smiling face looked at me through the window.

“I read all your articles” she said while the man explained to yet another female co worker who doesn’t read me who I was, telling her about the dogs, the lake, and my beloved. He REALLY read me.

I realized then that I had to accept the fact I had to own up to my transgression, and accept the accolades, heartfelt and sincere.

Humbled and knocked down a few notches, I will be more mindful that my actions will precede me if I am not careful. They were good natured and served as a loving reminder that our lives touch others in ways we never dream of.

Thanks and a big grin to Ron, Nancy and Dawn. You made my day.

But I hope I never see you again. At least, not in the courthouse.