Let Your Presence be the Present
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Even in Arthur’s absence, I’ve tried to make it routine to stop by and see Auntie Joyce (my Shelterless-Kindred). TBH, I haven’t been so good at sticking to the routine. So, this morning on my way to work, I went out of my way—twice—to get to my Auntie Joyce. I’m sure if anyone were watching me cross the street, then re-cross, only to cross again, they would have thought it strange and…typical DC!
The final street crossing put me within earshot of Auntie Joyce; except when I called out, she couldn’t hear me. My successful attempt at getting her attention involved some interpretive dance. But when she removed the new headphones and saw me, she exhibited joy and offered a warm embrace. Then she scolded me. She asked where I had been in the time since our last visit; even saying, “I thought maybe you went back to Texas!” She even asked if Arthur had visited me, because she appealed to him that I not forget her... As the shame became visible on my brow and I was duly scolded, Auntie Joyce said, “I just wanted to give you the third part of your presidents’ gift-set.” Damn ya’ll. I started to cry.
We walked to her usual spot (given all the crisscrossing’) at the train over-pass near 1st & L Streets Northeast. She retrieved a brilliant-colored package and handed it to me. She advised that it might come in handy soon. And I believe her. She also said she was waiting on her usual Christmas miracle. Now, in light of recent cultural experiences, I felt my spirit look upward with revelation suggesting, “I see you’re at it again!”
I shared with Auntie Joyce the writings I composed at Arthur’s passing and at yesterday’s introduction to Adam. Her eyes welled. She said, “Ray I’m so glad you stopped by today.”
With a loving embrace, we said our farewells for the day. I promised to return soon, by God and Arthur’s directive.
You’ve heard it time and again, and it bears repeating. So, I will… “In this Christmas season, your presence is a tremendously invaluable present.”
