Directions

Running errands today, little sweetheart, I had been to the post office and had to duck into the housewares store just up the block. The sidewalk there on W52nd Street is a bit narrow with all the delivery bicycles and store displays. 

 

An older couple were walking very slowly in front of me, she leading and he behind her looking at his phone. “I’m trying to find it, sweetheart”, he said. Sweetheart. That is, of course, how I addressed you (and still do!) and no one else ever. 

 

I ducked into the store, got my stuff and when I came out they were at the corner looking up at the vacant building where my dry cleaners used to be. 

 

The address is still printed on the awning and she read it aloud. “782”. I stopped and told them that the numbers go up as you walk north. I asked what address they were looking for. 

 

She said “764”. I said, pointing, “okay, so you guys want to go south. Next block, this side of the street”. She thanked me and started walking but her husband stood there and shook my hand looking at me intently. “You’re a good guy!” he said. 

 

I laughed and said, “Likewise! You guys have fun!” 

 

Sometimes when something random like that happens and I can help someone, I really feel like you are with me. I know you are. And you were today.

With all my love forever.