Tonight, I just need some time to think. On my way home from
work, I laced up my skates and hit the large icy ravine. I
descended the steps at 5th avenue and felt the late afternoon
wind hit my face. The sun was starting to lower itself. I
thought about life, community, the Glebe, Ottawa, friends,
love...and me. I plugged my headphones into my skull
and let the new Killers album tickle my ears on my way.
The ice was in fine form today and there was barely a soul
out to experience it. Even through the music, I could hear
the crystal swishes of my feet pushing out for speed. I
thought about different people. People who I've become
close to...and others who have fallen off the grid. I thought
about how quick we are to jump on each other when we
should really take a few steps back and evaluate our actions
before we do anything. I pushed onward, past the beaver
tail stop at pretoria bridge and passed a few ankle-skating
girls (who seemed to be having a blast - good for them).
As I made my way to Somerset, I felt a little renewed. I
felt like the dawning of new things are on the horizon line.
I saw a fat man without a tooth laughing in a very hoarse
manner. He seemed jolly despite his lack of oral hygiene.
More power to him. Laughter is an amazing medicinal
device.
I rounded the corner by Somerset and saw the sun get
lower. The ice conditions became pretty crappy but I
wouldn't be on for too much longer. I plunked on to a
bench and exhaled deeply. I took off my skates and put
them in backpack, swapping them for my warm boots.
I ascended the steps up to Somerset and thanked the
Lord above for days and moments like these.
I copy-catted the words of Bill Murray as I pulled my
toque down hard and said 'This...is an adventure'.
Sometimes, a skate on the canal is all that the soul
truly needs.
