27jul2014.txt

Occasionally, someone will see the small bronze disc dangling about my neckline and ask. http://www.dementix.org/~shadow/necklace.jpg

Excepting two times when I needed to fix it, the chain is always around my neck. On my morning bike rides, the occasional uneven stroke of the pedals leads to the charm bouncing off my chest, a very light reminder that it's there. If you get close enough, you can read it. "Pittsburgh Railways". On the back, hidden under what it's mounted on, it advises "Good for One Fare".

Nine years ago, I gave serious consideration to leaving. My job, then as now, did not tie me down. I wasn't ready to be far from home, but after evaluation, I almost moved to Columbus, something I'd still be open to. But 9 years is a long time.

In a few bad moments, the idea of leaving has crossed my mind again. But things are different. There is more for me here. The time is right. Now, leaving feels like it would be a cop-out. Fleeing problems, not starting fresh.

90 years ago, one fare would be you to any corner of the city. Today, doing so costs far more than a nickel (but I can get on my bike and do it free). There's a lot within those confines. Sometimes, I just need some help remembering it.

Step 52: appreciate the place, time and especially people you have. It's easy to forget you're not alone, especially in times of trouble.