Continued from August 19, 2009…….
He stood there and slowly stopped his wave, and just stared at the remaining image in his mind of the truck, expecting them to return. They did not. Later his brother just said he assumed I had a ride…..huh? That moment was a clear sign of the times for him….rely on yourself.
Wandering up the on ramp now he wondered if someone else might be headed the same way. Certainly one of these many cars passing by would offer the kid a ride. He hesitantly stuck out his thumb for the first time, not knowing yet how often he would rely upon his fellow man for rides in the years ahead.
Simple really. The driver invests the gas and car, and he would share a story with enough enthusiasm to keep the Samaritan entertained. The dance has been engaged to the mutual interests of both participants up and down the roads of this land many times without incident.
Jumping out somewhere on State Street he began walking west. It was at least 20 blocks or say two miles to his brother’s flophouse. As he walked he enjoyed the late afternoon lights play on the city streets. It was Saturday, and people along the sidewalk were in a festive mood as he recalls. He could hear cheering as he walked by tavern doors. His curiosity got the best of him and he finally decided to enter into the darkness inside.
As his eyes adjusted to the contrast, he made out the anticipation of patrons staring up at the small black and white television on the bar shelf. It was the track and field portion of the summer Olympics. Someone encouraged him to pull up a stool, which he did, and he started drinking quarter beers with his new comrades. The positive energy flowing through that moment would stay with him to this day, to engage humanity with enthusiasm.
Walking the darkened streets later with a happy buzz made his young eyes open even further, so much going on if he just looked closely. Reaching his brothers door he was a little surprised at the non-reaction he received from his older brother. Then again, perhaps not.
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