Viola Chavez

We form human connections with people when we least expect it. Meet Viola Chavez, a 78 year old sweet lady that “knits” jewelry three hours a day to keep busy.  I met her at the 100th anniversary of the Indian Art Festival in Santa Fe, NM. 

We connected at a human level. There was something about her that struck a cord.  We spoke about family and our very different lives.  She reassured me that I was her “best” customer for the year, right after I spent a pretty penny buying her wares.  

She came out from behind her little counter and gave me a big hug.  I held this small lady as if we were bound by some inexplicable bond. I know I will never see Viola again, but she touched my life in an uncanny way.  I wish her well. May her talent continue to touch the lives of strangers.  

About Hemant Rustogi

An award-winning teacher at The University of Tampa, an entrepreneur, a CEO and founding principal of Advantage Pointe Internationale, and blogger on 5oclockreflections.com.