It’s our shared interests that help define us

By: 
Miriam Nelson
News Editor

We all have our preferences, the likes and dislikes that form our sense of identity. Some find it in political parties, others in sports teams and others in performers we like to watch.

I’m not impressed with either political party at this time. So rather than managing my expectations, I find myself managing my disappointment in each party.

We all know I’m not much of a sports fan. I’ll claim I’m a Packer backer, but when I lived in Minnesota I did waver — but only because I look better in purple than I do in green. It was never a question of loyalty for me but rather where was I at that moment in time.

I do have performers I like to watch. I’ve been to several Rod Stewart concerts and his “rogue rather than rebel” persona appeals to me. I have a friend in Minneapolis who is a professional actor, and I try to go see whatever show he’s in because I know he works in quality productions.

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to see Garrison Keillor do a show at the Mabel Tainter Theater in Menomonie. It was a bonus show on so many levels. First of all, I got to go to the show with a dear friend of mine — she’s got a great laugh, so I definitely enjoy going to shows with her.

Second, I got to see a theater I’d heard much about over the years. It’s been beautifully restored but I’m not sure it was the best venue for Keillor fans, most of whom were elderly and not incredibly mobile. Although it was handicap accessible, it wasn’t exactly handicap friendly.

Third, I got to see a performer who over the years has made me laugh and cry and lose myself in the midst of his stories from Lake Wobegon.

My longest reign of employment was due to this man and his performances. When I lived in Minneapolis, I worked for 14 years at a store that sold primarily merchandise related to his radio show, books and other adventures he has shared along the way.

Working retail is not for the faint of heart and working at the Mall of America, at least when it first opened, was unique just in the sheer volume of people who passed through those halls. I think what kept me working there for so long was the fact that anyone who shopped at the store had a good sense of humor. It was something you could share and be a better person because of it.

My parents were Keillor fans as well and benefited from my ready access to purchase his CDs. I remember bringing home one of the newest collections of Lake Wobegon stories, and we listened to them in the van during our last trip together. The man has a way of weaving a tale that is unlike any other. At one point, I had to pull over as I was laughing too hard to see the road ahead of us.

I have a lot of fond memories shared with my parents and customers and friends thanks to the craft of a performer. I suppose whether it’s working toward common goals through a political party, celebrating victories of a team effort or bonding with the tales of quirky man with an overactive imagination, a life well lived is a life well shared.