Page eleven

I'm out, I can't believe it, I'm really out. I don't feel any older, in fact what I feel is a sense of jubilation. I just picked up my small bag of valuables and momentos, walked right up to that huge green wall of trees, did not hesitate even a bit, strolled right straight through to the other side. At least, that's where I think I am. I looked behind me to see what I could see, and Shangri-la was gone. I even attempted to walk back through the line of trees, but nowhere could I see from whence I had come. I guess I'm stuck here, stuck on the other side. I don't feel any older, but I do feel a certain kind of growing older physicality. Hmm, wonder how long this will last? I turned my head towards a strange sound, is that quiet laughter coming from the trees? Better be on my way, lots to do, people to see, Naomi to find. With that thought, I grab my bag, shoulder it and begin my trek.

Page ten

Leaving is a lot more difficult than I thought it would be. I've been staring at the forest wall for a number of days now, and I am no closer to going through that dark wall of foliage than I was fifty years ago. I realize that she is out there waiting, at least I hope that's true, but I still cannot force the actions necessary for me to step through that veil of green. What do I do? How can I get over this reluctance to take that very first step? I'm not sure that I can force myself to leave. I want to desperately, with all my heart I do, but I cannot seem to force my body out of its supine position, force it to leave this cozy cocoon of life, or face the fact that I am stuck in neutral, drifting with the current of life. I must make myself free, I must take that step, if I am any kind of man at all, I will seize this opportunity to achieve my decades long dream of reuniting with Naomi. Otherwise I will be sifted like the chaff I am.