Reminiscence

Prologue

                                                                                 October 25th, 2010

The tape recorder was just sitting there, right in front of me, taunting me with its blinking light, ready to hear the story of my life. I sighed deeply, then began.

"My name is Jack Taylor. I am an old man. My hair is no longer dark and full, my knees don't work right anymore, and my grandkids have kids. I've lived a long life, one that I'm not entirely proud of, but I've come to terms with. For the past few months..." I paused. Was I ready to say it out loud? I still wasn't sure if it was real, or if I was just going crazy. I steeled my reserve. "For the past few months, I have been traveling back in time, reliving my life. Now I wish to share it with you.

                                                                               March 6th, 2010

My wife had always laughed at my nightly rituals. Turning the porch light on, locking the front door, then neatly laying out the clothes I planned to wear in the morning. She used to tell me, "Why are you lighting the front porch? We're all already home!" I'd just smile and say, "Oh, the milkman doesn't like working in the dark Sandra. Best keep him happy now." She hasn't asked in several years now, and I found myself missing her more than usual. It's been five years since cancer took her from me. "C'mon Fred. It's time for bed." The old beagle looked up at me, then dutifully followed me into the bedroom. As I drifted off to sleep, I had no idea that I wouldn't see his sagging face when my eyes opened next.