I Listened to Myself

Part 1: Night of Passage

The night was long and lovely.

It had been some time since X hung out with his buddies. It was a great night. The air was crisp and clean. The wind blew gently keeping the fresh, relaxing feeling in everyone. Good spirits were vibrating though out the night. Everyone walked with smiles and in an inviting manner. There was no discomfort or agitation. Though most had just met for the first time, everyone was everyone's friend.

X had lost count of how many beers he had after his sixth or seventh. He was full of laughs. Full of life. Full of ambition. The young graduate was the last of his friends to graduate. College was over and tonight was a night to celebrate. Things were not perfect but he was grateful for what he had and for his situation.

He was going to wake up late. He planned on catching up on his chores like selling his old car and finally painting his room. He planned on getting rid of the college things he didn't need anymore. He planned on watching cable TV and maybe get into one of those television series everyone but he knew about. He was blind, scared but living life.

Life for X was busy but fulfilling. The weeks would role into weekends than back to Monday. He rated his days according to how many goals were completed that day.He did have a girl friend that he really didn't see. Having his doubts; X often wondered if he was her only boyfriend. Those thoughts came and went, he really didn't care. With the many girls in the world and the fine girls at the party, X was all set with any long term commitment. 

Tonight is the start of a new cycle, a new book, a new beginning and a new life. He laughed as he tipped the end of his beer all over himself. His friends replied to his act in unison, screaming " X!, X!, X!..Yeah!!"

X climbed a near by tree. Everyone cheered and encouraged him as he climbed higher and higher.He got to a strong branch and sat on it. All eyes were on him. The bright moon caught his eye and he looked at it. He admired the clear night with the bright moon glowing over the calm black lake. The moon light glistens over the black water. Stars also glistened on the gentle surface. Everyone looked up at the moon than stared at the lake the same as X. It was the best show in nature and the main event of the night.

Everyone was silent. X was still silent staring at the moon. Some were admiring the beauty they didn't know was there. Those kept in admiration had never looked up. Others were wondering what was X's next move.

As everyone was silent, X took in a deep breath.

He took one look at the moon, closed his eyes and let out the biggest howl every heard from a human.

Everyone instantly erupted with cheer, hands up and peace signs.

X yells out "Here I come!" and jumps off the tree branch where he sat.

Everyone reacted with concern and rushed to catch him.

X felt free, he felt loved, he was ready to take on the world.

As his friends help him to his feet;

X says "I love you guys."