Category Archives: Health

Deterrent

He likes a little Vicodin so much that though he hasn’t sought it on the street, he’s not above some friendly theft. His touch is cautious and his attitude’s discreet; he’s purloined pills from parents, in-laws, friends. He likes the … Continue reading

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Not Dead Yet

Six weeks ago I wrenched my lower back. I’m happy to announce, as of today I feel recovered from that deep attack, and though some time was spent in pain, dismay and grouchiness, at least at last I healed. My … Continue reading

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Mr. B’s Phonograph

One day when I was ten and in 5th grade, the teacher spun a record for us all. I can’t remember what the needle played, but I can see the phonograph – a small appliance on a table in the … Continue reading

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Sot

I want to like her but she drinks too much, and isn’t near as fun to be around as she must think she is. She’s apt to touch me needlessly, repeat herself, expound on criticisms victims overhear, embarrass me and … Continue reading

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Myriad

The sages say it takes ten thousand hours for someone to acquire expertise. While talent may be there at birth, the powers in success require practice to increase. And though you’ve walked since you were one year old, your average … Continue reading

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The Fifth Wheel

The oldest kid, the only girl, the black sheep in her family of origin, she early learned to be alone. In fact she liked her solitude – she could begin a poem, reread a book, design some clothes for paper … Continue reading

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The Cold

Two weeks ago I caught a simple cold and carried it to Portland in my chest. I didn’t think it much, but now I’m old enough to feel a wreck and need more rest than I arranged. Compounding as a … Continue reading

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Exercism

My father called me sedentary when I wouldn’t leave my book to come outside. “I’d say you were a vegetable, but then that’s slandering the plants.” And though I’d ride my bicycle, and walk more than allowed, I gathered that … Continue reading

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Sugarless

I cut out sugar thirty months ago. I didn’t miss the cookies or the pies. But then I felt my love for cheesecake grow. Indulging now and then, it was a prize I shared when dining out that soon became … Continue reading

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The Adversity Advantage

We’re babies when we notice opposites, so day & night or open/shut are taught with ease, just like we learn which contour fits each hole in sorting toys. With further thought as children, we begin to reason thus: that pain … Continue reading

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