You can be a person of integrity, known for always doing and saying the right things, and still wake up one morning to find your life is no longer what it seemed. In that moment, mostly drowning in shock and denial, your eyes are opened to reality and you can’t imagine how someone like you got here. For me this eye-opening reality experience happened in a sequence of catastrophes that lasted for days. It all started with the ringing of my cell phone…
She flipped her bra strap back onto her shoulder with her thumb and said, “Holy defiance of gravity! Sixty-five years young and my boobs have begun migrating back north. This is ‘bound’ to be a great day.”
All the professionals had assured us this was a routine, out-patient, medical procedure. Of course, that’s what they said last time when we returned two days later for a three day stay. We hoped to fare better this time.
It was still dark on this early morning and the children’s hospital courtyard and valet parking station was aglow with Christmas lights that out-shined many city parks.
I reviewed the checklist once again in my mind. I had all the necessary forms, insurance information, medications, favorite blanket and stuffed toy. Call the school later, I reminded myself. I had packed up the other kids and made their lodging arrangements with friends.
I glanced over at Bill, and sighed. I’m always the first one up and the last one to bed. Bill rolls out of the sack and puts on his pants. Must be nice. The standard is so low for fathers. Abstaining from alcohol during the day could get you a Father of the Year nomination.
Bill looks around and frisks his pants pockets. He says, “I forgot my phone.”
I received the duplex in the divorce, so it was comforting when a retired policeman became my next door tenant. Every time Pete brings me his rent check he bangs on the door and shouts, “Police, open up!” He thinks he’s so clever. My Chihuahua goes into a barking rage. When I open the door, he stands there in a macho Don Johnson Miami Vice pose. His efforts to impress me are the least of my worries.
Recently, Pete has had several health issues including a series of strokes. His mind is failing now, and I’m a little concerned considering all the weapons he likely possesses on the other side of the wall.
“Such great beginnings. I’m a master of opening lines. Too bad I never finish anything,” the writer said and sighed. She closed her laptop, walked over and removed the ‘Help Wanted’ sign from the door of the coffee shop and placed it on the counter.