It’s half past 6 when I rise. Coffee calls and I’ve been restless for an hour. Sliding out of bed I stiffly walk and loosen as I find my way in the pitch black to the bathroom. Must- urinate, blow my nose, manage this unruly hair, brush my teeth, splash water on my face… now that feels better. I dress, gather the essentials, and cross over the threshold, alertness in my body.
Down the well worn gravel drive I go, mindful of my step. The sun will not rise for another hour- the neighborhood sleeps in. I wonder how I must look as my cloaked figure creeps through the dark. Is there someone looking out, suspicious of my make? I grin. My hands are in my pocket, key wedged between my fingers. I move through the middle of the street and feel safe on this path, but I know how quickly that can change. Best to stay in this frame. Even so, I enjoy myself. I love this scene of modest stimulation. Gentle rain drops…. Light wind… Soft sparkles… The low volume sound of my clothes gliding together. I see a large lit Santa peering out a window and think- you have a menacing quality. I look forward to a warm brew and pastry- un rituel du dimanche.
I arrive just before the sandwich board. So I sit and check my email- three friends each write- I love you. This is a good way to start the day. Two minutes pass and the clatter of metal bids me welcome. Inside they know my order- a quad americano with oat milk….
“What are your plans for ringing in the New Year?”
I reply- “It will be quiet, that is all I know.” and return the query.
“My roommate is having a Mario Cart party, I’ll likely lose quickly.”
I laugh- “Fun! I haven’t played that game in forever.”
“Yeah, we’re playing on old equipment- a Wii.”
A giggle quietly escapes my lips… vintage for me dates back another two decades. I appreciate this simple and warm exchange and wish them a good day as I head out the door and back the way I came, mostly.
As I round a corner, coffee comforting and in hand, I startle and jump. A looming shape appears that at first glance my mind states- there’s someone behind you! I calm and chuckle when I realize this figure is me, another side of me, another part of me. Formed by the casting of nearby luminescence.
“Oh hi, Shadow” I whisper, “it’s good to see you”.
We move along towards that green porch light. Inside we sit and write as the daylight slowly seeps in.
