Riding the Wave With Branna
Wave. What’s the first thought that pops into your mind? A kind gesture or a ripple in the sea? How about you lovely ladies or gents out there that long for locks of slightly curling hair? Could your mind be meandering about a sudden occurrence of, or increase in, a certain phenomenon or activity?
It even had a movement of its own. Believed to have originated in the early 1980s, the wave was a mass maneuver where the crowd stands up and raises its arms, creating a ripple effect. Young and old alike loved the playful display that created excitement and energy in any given stadium.
My initial interpretation of this arbitrary idiom hailed from my Hoover family heritage. Be it Grandma Bertie or my amazing mom Linda, it was a common occurrence to be greeted when first meeting by “You hoo!” and a warm wave. It must have left a lasting impression on me because to this day, my first reaction when seeing a familiar face is to extend my five fingers forward in ample anticipation. I could be just passing another driver that I know (or don’t), a police officer, or any other array of public servants. And lest I leave out our friendly FedEx or other dedicated delivery drivers, our eyes meet and bam! There I go with the wanton wave. Now, if it’s a fond friend or family member, watch out. That’s when I go in for the full-on bear hug. Consider yourself warned.
For you proud parents out there, who can forget that fond farewell on your child’s first day of school? Just like my mom, I too, wistfully waved away my precious preschooler-turned-first-grader over 34 years ago, then again four years after that. Whether it was kindergarten or college, that memory is every mama’s heartbreak and greatest joy, all wrapped in one.
Superseding the Supermom era and delving through the decades, I now drive a few days a week for a local senior center. While I treasure the many memorable moments in my long-standing career, I think I saved the best for last. Nothing compares to the twinkle in their eye, and a joyous smile when I pull up to pick up my passengers.
Whatever YOUR particular perception – the prom queen motioning in the parade or the opulent ebbs in the ocean – behold the wonder of the wave!
Branna (McCarty) Shores believes that “HOME is where your story begins.” A Noblesville native and proud graduate of NHS and Purdue University, she is a professional speaker, advocate for mental health and work / family balance and retired social worker. Branna is the mother of two grown daughters, six precious grandchildren and wife of one brave husband! Her passions include singing, writing and sharing the lighter side of life through lessons learned, both personally and professionally. She can be contacted at branna18@gmail.com