The Free Box

I didn't anticipate it turning out to be such an ACTIVITY.  When the  the idea of a Free Box first hit me, it seemed like an easy way to get rid of the things I didn't want any more, but didn't feel like they were worth the hassle of selling.  It quickly became a much more intriguing and gratifying experience.  The first items in the free box were a whole bunch of books (quality reads, might I add), old CDs, and a few trinkets.  I tried to watch the Free Box activity from my window, but the awning over the pizza place kept it out of sight.  The only times I got to check on it was when I discovered things to add to it.  My first trip down to the box it was clear it had already been ruffled through. Many, if not all of the CD's were gone and there were several books missing.  I experienced a sense of pure satisfaction as I looked up and down the street thinking of the many people now carrying with them my old possessions. Even more pleasing was the thought that people had sincerely gained something for absolutely FREE that they would enjoy.  I for one can certainly appreciate FREE gifts. 
On my next trip down to the box there was  man sitting on the steps deep into a book.  I said, "oh I'm glad you found a book you like!" He didn't even look up.  Strange, so I kind of snuck a look at the cover.  Tuesday's With Morrie "Never read it, but I heard it's a great read."  Still nothing.  Interesting and curious.  I added a few more things to the box and left the man in peace.  Well he sat there and continued to read for hours.  I kept adding items to the box as quickly as they found new homes with strangers.  Never once did I actually catch someone in the act of taking things, but the mystery was half of the fun. I finally peaked out to see the man was gone from the steps.  I felt a weird, fleeting sense of disappointment.  I went down to check the box, and there was a note scribbled on the corner of one of the flaps, "Thanks for Tuesdays With Morrie! I will pass it along to a Friend ~ Me" I looked up and down the street, he was no where to be seen.  The walk light blinked it's orange hand, the cars and pedestrians moved around me and life in Inman Square continued as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened.  But in that moment I felt as though pieces of my life were sprinkled all over the place.  I thought of Ms. Rumphius and her Lupines.  I was so content and full of joy.

 Later that evening, as the sun began to go down over Inman Square and the intersection was showered in bubbles, we watched the Free Box Activity from across the street.  It was so fun to see our junk become other people treasures. The Free Box continues to be an important part of this move and even now, Sunday Evening, the box is full and ready to go out on the stoop in the morning.