Not Just Another Whole Foods

Ellie and friend at Whole FoodsOn my first day in Santa Fe, I went to Whole Foods. I was taking it all in…noticing how the sign was so small that I drove past it, how the architecture blended in with the mountains, how people moved slower and seemed to be aware and considerate of each other. I walked past the security guard and we smiled at each other. I continued shopping. The next time I passed him, he stopped me. He said that he sees a lot of people everyday, and he felt a presence of calm and strength radiating from me. Shocking! He asked my name and wanted to know who I was named after.  I was always embarrassed about this issue because she was a distant relative and I didn’t know much about her.  I said that it was no one important. When he insisted on knowing, I confessed that it was an uncle’s mother who was left to raise three children on her own. My mother admired her strength. “See,” he said. “I knew it!”

I went home and called my mother to find out more information about my great-aunt. She couldn’t remember anything else. I already knew the important part.

People here seem to treat everyone like they are valued friends.  The girl signing me into a yoga class, the woman at the chocolate shop, the man finding an item for me at the market are all present and warm and welcoming.  When I saw the security guard again today to take his picture, he apologized for not remembering my name.  He said that he was trying to be more present in 2014.  I don’t think that they understand how extraordinary that is. For them it is the norm.   I know that it’s not.  I appreciate it each and every time!

3 Responses to “Not Just Another Whole Foods”

  1. Charlotte

    Only you Ellie can turn a mundane chore (grocery shopping) into a wonderful and enjoyable experience!

    Reply
  2. Leslie

    Love the blog!! Your description of your initial attempts to get to Santa Fe were hysterical !!!
    Now I look forward to hearing about your daily excursions !

    Reply

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