Neighbors

I have become quite popular with my elderly neighbors. They see me come and go, watch me tote my laundry or fetch my mail. There is always a kindly wave. One of the porch sitters recently moved. I had no idea what happened, only that one day he was gone. Then yesterday as I dropped off my rent I heard "HI!!" and looked to see my old neighbor now occupying a new porch in the older section, which seems to be closer to assisted care. He was so happy to see me he actually spoke more than the usual greeting. I felt bad leaving, but said I would see him around.

I can totally relate to their days, waiting for interaction of any kind. Happy to see anyone walking by.

Another porch sitter (with a motorized scooter) always sits outside hat on. I can see home health stopping by to visit and help at least once per day. As I was doing laundry after a long night, he said something as I was walking by. I could not hear him, so I walked closer. I imagine I looked tired ( there are always circles under my eyes now..not a day passes when I cannot see them in the mirror. I wonder if this will be my 'new' look.) What he said was "You need to wake up." and he chuckled. I replied " I've been up all night..just trying to get this chore done." I guess that was a real knee slapper, because he did...laughing and slapping his knees. I smiled, at least I gave him a moment of happiness, however unintended.

Yes it is a quiet part of the neighborhood. There are many disabled people living on this side. I guess I admit to preferring their friendly waves to loud music and louder cars. But it bothers me...that this apartment sits amid others who are just waiting. Waiting for family to stop by, waiting for someone to wave to them, just waiting for the next stage, and sadly for most it will be somewhere closer to a nursing home. Me? I have felt like I was waiting since I moved in.

Waiting for there to be an appreciation of freedom...one that I did not ask for. It sometimes seems more like a jail then a home. Time I must serve. I wonder when I will get out for good behavior? Or will I grow cobwebs and end up sitting on my porch waving at young people passing by?

~

k

ps: There are times when Mr Ed, my old neighbor, slips and stills says "Hi neighbor" to me at work. Not anymore. My old home is filled with un's. Un-neighborly, unfaithful, unkind and undeserving.