“Do you have time to let me give you a demonstration of fountain pens before you go?”

The stationery shop’s proprietor smiled and waited for my answer. Her words surprised me. I was downtown with my mom, picking out a Birthday card for my daughter on a Friday afternoon when she asked. I paused. How long? Fountain pens? This woman seems like a sweet lady. How do I gracefully say no thank you?

I glanced at my mom, sensing she was interested. My thoughts continued. There’s no hurry. Saying yes to conversations is what slowing down looks like. My next words surprised me. “Sure, why not?”

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