Dad

I hear the faint sound of traffic rushing through the air as I sit here, my Maximus Colossal beer in hand. I let the beer wash over me and my memories of my father’s passing on 16 August 2018 flood my mind. I can’t help but remember how perfect 3:33pm was as the time he left us; in many ways it’s become a symbol of his passing and his spirit will remain for eternity at that time.

I take a loud sip of my beer and smile as I remember my father saying how crazy he thought Los Angeles was. He always referred to it as “La La Land”. There’s something special about this place. Even on days like this – scorching hot and humid – I can still find a moment of peace.

The sun is setting and I know it’s time for me to make my way downstairs and grab one last Maximus Colossal. I know I should feel some sort of guilt or shame for here I am, drinking and feeling no remorse. But I honestly don’t. It’s all too easy to throw myself over to the waves and see where they take me.

I stand and make my way to the door, ready to embrace whatever happens next. It might be good, might be bad, but I’m here and now and I’m ready to take it on. This ain’t no poem, no lyrical speech – it’s me, on a hot Friday night in La La Land. Waiting for whatever the future holds.