Practical Strangers

I had a good day in the co-op office. Since it was rent day there was a lot for me to do to keep busy. I was thrilled that the maintenance guy found time to remove my storm windows. I found it way too hot in my apartment with them on. I immediately came home, and opened them all. There is nothing like fresh air.

I bumped into a girl I used to work with about ten years ago on my way back to the office after having received my latest (torturous) needle treatment. She’s now married with a child. I have always wondered where she ended up. Her son was adorable. She married the guy she had dated back when we had first met. I think it’s great when people find true love, and happiness. It’s a rare gift. We might Facebook each other. I was happy she’s well.

I watched American Beauty tonight. It’s the first time I’ve seen it in years. It’s my favorite film. I love it because the characters in it are all so damaged. I was happy to learn that I no longer related to any of their issues. I’ve come a long way in the last couple of years. Still, its hard to ignore the brilliant performance Kevin Spacey gave. I don’t think just any actor could have gained my sympathy playing a middle-aged man with the hots for a young teenage girl. It’s still the most powerful film I have ever seen. But I see it differently now. I see the hope, and optimism buried under all the confusion.

I just spoke on the phone with a trans woman I had all but decided to ignore. We just weren’t meshing for the brief time we had spoken. I was surprised that she called me. But in the end, I was happy she had. It was a good talk. We both vented healthily about a few issues we  finally related on. Nothing too in-depth mind you. Just a bit of scratching the surface.

Sometimes the most comfortable conversations are the ones shared between practical strangers.

cheers,

Adrienne M. Leigh

****(Charles & Eddie – Wounded Bird) from the film True Romance