In Due Time

Dear Maria,

I guess the newsiest of the news is my intention to move from my spot here to somewhere in the Upstate where I will be closer to family. Four generations are gathered now in the Greenville area, and that locale seems to be next for me.

Have to sell the house here, of course, and sort out a few things, but while the timeline forward is uncertain, the direction is clear.

Before going up to visit around Mother’s Day, I chanced one late afternoon to see about a dozen chimney swifts in tight formation fly over the garden out back and then scatter in chaotic fashion to chase bugs. My immediate reaction was that I hadn’t seen that before—seen much along the way, but haven’t seen everything yet. Outside my parents’ condo after supper, as I was taking Max for a walk, dozens and dozens of swifts swooped right overhead. Even Max was startled. Hadn’t seen a sight like that either. Check.

Maybe on a subconscious level some of the decision to move on is to see some things I haven’t seen before. Doesn’t feel like change for the sake of change, but just time to take on somewhere else. Been here 30 years nearly.

Mentioned to a few friends how I had in my mind that the next owners here could very well decide to tear out the garden. They were aghast, but for me, just a shrug. I am reminded of the sand mandalas that are so intricate and so beautiful and then are swept away in minutes. Gone. Only in memory. Well, in photos on Facebook, too.

I have lived under 11 roofs in the Charleston area. I had students come and go 28 times in my career here. And the sunrises and the sunsets, by the thousands.

Max, of course, is of genuine concern. For him, a fenced backyard, and for us a good place to walk daily. Not sure what the next home will bring in that regard. Won’t be an apartment or condo.

But that question will be answered in due time.

A little wistful, to be sure. Sky is overcast today, but no rain most likely. Haven’t seen the bluebirds of late.

I’ll stay in touch. You be well, and may your family thrive.

Yours, srk