In flight (for Johnnie)

This piece was originally written a while ago but revised and dedicated to my dear friend Johnny at his memorial last year after he passed away at far too young an age. Tomorrow is the one year anniversary of his death but it is his life and laughter and the brightness that he brought to this world that I will always remember. I can think of no more appropriate way to rededicate myself to posting on this blog.

In flight (for Johnnie)

As I embark on this journey, I am both excited and fearful. My life will never be quite the same. My youth departs with each passing mile as I travel back in time yet ahead in historical depth. In flight on a search for the genuine origin of the blood that courses through my veins, the contours of my face, the hue of my skin.

As I gaze outward, the clouds seem deeper and ancient, cloaking this long distant piece of me. I am humbled yet my senses tingle, awakened by the rays of the refracted sunlight, twirling arms and legs of gold upon the gauzy pillows. My dark brown eyes are open as never before and my heart aches to glimpse what lies beneath the atmospheric dance.

There is indeed an innate comfort in all of this. I have always been keenly aware that I belong here. My pride, emotion, love and desire derive from this time-worn but blessed landscape. Before it appears beneath the departing sky, I merely mourn the loss of my youthful illusions, naivete and anxiety. It clears and then my eyes are truly open. For I am thrilled, thrilled quite simply to finally be home again.

© 2012 Paul Caracciolo. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.