New York City through the eyes of children

The first time we saw New York City was just like the movies. The fortress of lights seemed to run forever. “Wow!” I remember my brother saying. A field separated us from that paradise, and it was too dark to see if it were one we’d be able to cross easily. We pondered ideas of what went on there and what we’d do when we visited. The longer we stared and shared thoughts, the more goosebumps I felt all over.

Alzheimer’s Love

What is love for someone with Alzheimer’s? In 2002, our father was abducted. We had no idea where to. Well, what I mean is his mind was snatched, and it was only after months of exams that the doctors diagnosed him with this dementia. Physically he was fine, at least in 2002. Since then, he’s become incapacitated, slumping over in his wheelchair, head usually down. At times, out of nowhere, he’s alert, head up, and he mumbles a few words—some clear, others not so intelligible.

Bar Talk 3: Leonard

Damn Leonard! What the hell was he doing here. No one called him over. The veteran boozer invited himself to our table, speaking in some Twin Peakian language. He made no sense, rambling on about war, police states, and government corruption. His breath stank of a concoction of Pall Mall’s and liquor. Spit flew from his mouth as he shouted. It was repulsive. Jenny asked him to leave, so he stood at attention, as he once did when a young soldier, and saluted us.