A Time of Innocence

I'm ready to talk now. At least that's what I have been telling myself for several months now. Three years ago, I had life by the tail. I was 39, and was bracing for the crisis that everyone told me would come at 40. The nephew I raised was a junior at UTK. I've owned my home since 92. Worked for same company since 90. And was content with spending the rest of my life with the one I loved. Then it began. One January evening she asked me how I knew I would be content from now on. Looking back, I would say mainly because that question never had entered my mind. Then on Valentines day, everything fell apart- she had plans, but not with me.

I made a clean break and moved on at least physically. Dating sucks. I think I had a sign that said, "idiots and wierdos form a line here."

Then the week before Thanksgiving, I got a call from the nephew's fiance as I was leaving work. Cell phone rang. I work near the Bama line- very rural. She said, "Just wanted to let you know Wil has been in an accident and they are saying he is unconscious and paralysed." No Service. Frantic driving to interstate. Signal. GF. "I just got off the phone with the Dean of Student Affairs and they are now saying he has movement in feet but not arms." Playing intramural football, was hit and landed on his head." I thought well he cant be paralysed if he has feeling in his feet and legs. 6o mile drive home. 210 miles to Knoxville. My parents wanted to ride with me. More phone calls- he seemed to be ok- just unconscious. What?

I will continue later.