I frequently find myself getting lost watching people. One of my favorite games is to watch someone, and then try to fill in the details of their life. It’s funny, but I can’t remember not doing this.

A couple of recent people stand out. One was the homeless guy walking past my house the other day. He had a yellow shopping cart brimming with what I assume are all his worldly possessions. It struck me as odd that he had as many brooms as he did. I don’t think I have that many brooms. I wondered whether he uses them to hold up an awning during the rain, or whether there are odd jobs he does where sweeping is useful. I was certain they must be useful — critical — otherwise he would surely not lug them around.

Another standout was the guy at the library. He stands all day, checking out books at an enormous desk. They are busy enough that people with more specialized needs, such as getting change or asking questions, go to other people. He’s there nearly every time I visit, which is often.

I wondered, what makes his job bearable? He seems to take a good look at the books we check out, and must have though it interesting that my most recent trip included five “Junie B. Jones First Grader” books for my 5-year-old as well as a book entitled “Hitler Youth” for my 10-year-old’s book report.

Do you do the same thing? Do tell…