Amazing! I've never seen a coin with this many sides to it. And all, on some level, are accurate and valid ways of seeing our surroundings.

I carry a state of Illinois I.D. card because I can't drive any more. I carry a HUD identification card because my Housing and Urban Development management authority says I need to. I also carry an I.D. card that is addressed TO ALL LAW ENFOCEMENT OFFICERS. It informs them that I am not drunk but have MS--and that's why I walk that way (if indeed I am able to stand up at all.)

There was a time when I'd've been indignant as all hell about the IDs. Now, though, I just don't have the strength to make waves. And guess what? It is O.K. -- and I'm glad I have a place to live that's handicapped accessible. ---- If I ever see Bob outside walking around---or Taj Mahal---or any of my musical heroes who are people of color --- I will yell out the window and tell 'em to come up for a diet Coke because the booze is gone from my life too now.

We would talk about our music since I can't play it any more. I might ask Bob to play "The Times They Are A-Changing"--because they surelly are doing that--and as we watch. Life is a gas---sometimes pure oxygen and sometimes a fart---but I will continue to breathe deeply of whatever wafts my way.

And I'll do that until I can't.

Love,

Art