5 Comments
May 28Liked by Brandon Andress

This morning on my way out my locked door, I closed it before I remembered my keys. I called my neighbor to ask to be let in because I gave them the key. The neighbor across the street greeted me by name while I waited. Yes, I know them by name.

These are my people. They have my back and I theirs. At 56 years old, I can say that the last time I knew all my neighbors before now was 30 years ago.

Your transparency about your struggle is motivating me to seek out more intimate relationships with the people I don’t know. Thank you for the push.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Mare. Good words from you. Thank you for your example.

Expand full comment
May 28Liked by Brandon Andress

"Tough words to admit. Tough words to put on paper." I like this quick stylistic detour you took as it helps to point out your introversion and your sense of time. I am selfish with me time as well, I get it. These 2 sentences caught my eye. Keep 'em comin', BA.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Brian. This was the third version of this essay. The first two weren’t not as honest. When I wrote this one, it hit me. That’s when I wrote those two lines. I wondered if they would resonate. I am glad they did. I hope you are well!

Expand full comment

I've heard that Da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa with several layers on top of layers as he was re-working and heading towards something he could live with. Glad you took the time to dig deeper, amigo.

Expand full comment