Late on Christmas morning, I walked downtown for a little exercise.
Few were out and around, save for the drifters, alcoholics and addicts who had had no place to sleep the night before, and still had no place to be now. People who had homes had stayed in them that morning, to celebrate Christmas.
Except for two families with young children. Together they walked up and down Pacific Avenue wishing Merry Christmas to the people sheltering in storefronts or huddling on benches. The children handed out home-made cookies and candies, which were accepted with thanks and grace.
A good Christmas scene, all in all. At one point I caught up with the families as they talked to a trio of drifters with big backpacks.
The young men smiled at the children, and chatted with them; and from his pocket one brought out a pet to show them: a big brown and white rat.
"Oooooooh," the children said, surging forward to stroke it.
"Children!" screamed one of the mothers.
"Did you ask him for permission to pet the rat?!"
Sometimes I truly appreciate this town. Merry Christmas to it.
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4 comments:
Hi Boomer! I just want to let you know how much I enjoy reading your tales. No matter the subject they always touch my heart, provoke a thought or two, bring back good memories and stay happily in my head. I always look forward to my next visit because I know it will be rewarding. I appreciate you taking the time to do this for us.
Best to you,
Annie
Glad to hear from you again, Annie, and thanks very much for the kind words.
As for taking the time to write this -- it may not always be easy, but it's always worth doing. Your thanks makes it even more so.
What a wonderful sight. Easy to see why you love the place. Merry Christmas and enjoy the new year. I'm thinking you'll have plenty to arouse the writer inside during the coming months.
Thanks very much, Forrest. I suspect that there'll be a great deal to write about.
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