Every so often a stranger penetrates the thin veneer that shields my perceptions, challenges my shallow take on the universe and reminds me – there’s some hysterical people living in New Jersey. Not The Shining sort of hysterical, but a proper fitting strait jacket and a shot of Thorazine just might help them focus.

Picture a cool September morning in $tarbucks, as I add sugar and cream to my to go coffee at the kiosk. A $tarbucksDad holds a 1 year old boy in his arms nearby.

$tarbucks Dad: You got a watch?
sam: Yeah.
$tarbucks Dad: What time is it?
sam( pours milk ): Gimme a second.
$tarbucks Dad( no pause ): Come on, what time is it?
sam( adds sugar ): One second, OK?
$tarbucks Dad( no pause ): I’m in a hurry.

Tasting the coffee, I decide the brew needs more sugar and add it. Satisfied, I check my watch for a long second and then smile at $tarbucks Dad.

$tarbucks Dad: You keeping it a secret?
sam( walks away ): Yes, sir. I am.