Last Day in PA

One aspect of my character that I wish I was able to change, is my laziness when it comes to reflection. I know it is important and that I should take time to slow down my hustle-bustle world, but I find it very difficult. Often times when I make a conscious effort to attempt this art of thinking, I end up falling asleep, or my train of thought meanders into obscurity leaving me either frustrated or just plain tired: nothing has been accomplished; I am befuddled.

Our last day here in the United States has arrived, which struck me suddenly with vindictive resoluteness as I was taking a shower. Tonight, some friends are going to take me and Jamie out to a local restaurant, "The Hot Dog Shoppe." No, it is not a high-brow institution; rather, it is quite the opposite: a dingy eatery where the same cast of characters conglomerate, usually consisting of old men discussing politics wearing union jackets and brim-stained steelers' caps. I am fond of ordering the "chili-cheese" fries, which is the apex of a cholesterol-pounding cuisine that has made America famous. The "cheese-paste", as it is affectionately referred to, is a congealed mass of yellow and salt, but oh-so delicious on a pile of fries. Does it sound appetizing? Probably not, but that is OK, because for "out-of-towners" it never is. The Hot Dog Shoppe's endearment to me as a local is what makes it special: late-night conversations, lunches on Sunday after church, eating my fries with a fork and, of course ,the "wiener cups." This will be my last time to indulge and it is sobering. I won't be seeing many of my friends for a while, let alone eating my favorite chili-cheese fries; I won't be able to run down the street and know exactly what is expected of me in a social setting; I won't be able to play wiffle-ball with a long-time friend, I won't be able to talk to my brothers daily about their new adventures. No, it is going to be different.

I know that I have said before that change is good and it is. I know that the Czechs have their own local traditions and "hang-outs" where people congregate and tell stories. I just hope that one day, I will be able to partake. But, for now, I am left to wonder of what might be. I guess that is natural. For now, however, Jamie and I will go out one last time with our friends and have one-last hurray in hopes for a safe travels and a smooth transition into our new lives.