No One Ever Calls

In the glitz and glamor that can be Palm Springs, there are a lot of very lonely people.

Unlike many other small towns and communities, this city and its surrounding Coachella Valley seems to attract a wide range of folks seeking something they can’t find in their own neighbor-hood back home. On the surface, it’s probably the clear blue skies, turquoise swimming pools and lush green golf courses. A mirage, really, that continues to perpetuate this image of the rich and famous and want-to-be. But a lot of folks seem to be looking for something more substantial…. companionship, love, affection, and the attention of someone else.

The predominance of gay singles and couples, along with a straight population, does nothing to change that equation. Loneliness can creep into anyone’s life. Palm Springs, even more so than like communities along the coast, is a melting pot of individuals all of whom bring their own unique blend of life stories to the mix. Over the years, Sharon and I have gotten to know some of those folks.

The first question usually asked of a new single or couple in town is simply: “Where are you from?” It seems that almost no one is from here. That’s where the similarity to our neighbors back in Minnesota takes a sharp turn from normal and average to the uniqueness of this place.

The good folks at Palm Springs Tourism bless their heart; do their best to promote the many attractions of the Valley. Truth be told, it’s a great place to visit and enjoy. But living here alone and burdened by past life events, doesn’t make the skies any bluer or the mountains any more appealing.

Since Sharon and I have been coming here for over twenty years, we’ve met, interacted with and lost track of a lot of folks over the years. Some are still great friends and others have moved on with their lives. Reflecting back on that plethora of individuals, I can’t help but be struck by the number that carry some kind of baggage with them.

Yet on the surface, most folks would never guess this is the case. Homes and hovels, cars and carriages aside, these individuals all carry the burden of past life stories with them in their daily lives. Holidays seem to bring a lot of that sadness to the surface. So on any given holiday, these folks are grateful to be invited along and not left behind to spend the day alone.

Sharon and I have, on a number of occasions, held holiday celebrations and made a point of inviting single neighbors or friends or acquaintances over to share a meal with us. We’ve also invited folks over to celebrate birthdays and other anniversaries at our house.

Unlike our neighborhood back in Apple Valley, this place is another kind of repository of lost souls, people seeking something in their lives and others just looking for a smile in return. It’s different from back in Minnesota but the folks here are just as real, just as genuine, and just as in need of that little something else; be it a gesture of kindness or a willingness to just listen.

I hope to oblige.