Including

It’s rather funny, the way cherished dreams of youth can evoke a smile and sometimes, even a chuckle decades later and for a brief second in time, erase the rigidity of age,

Today the sun is shining. When I see it’s magnificence the second I open my eyes, that’s when I remember.

As a youngster, I never sought fame or fortune; I didn’t even view success with envy, but I desperately wanted two things “When I grow up.”

I wanted a bedroom with not only a window, but a door that closed and provided privacy.

In those years of yore, the multitude of railroad apartments tucked tightly across the isle of Manhattan, had neither.

Beyond that, rigid NYC fire laws prohibited any kind of covering (french doors, screens and or/drapes) for the cubicles used for sleep. Obviously, It was a sensible and wise edict but one violently objected to by both my friend, Joan and I.

However, since both patriarchs were firm believers in government and rigidly law abiding, neither Joan nor I grew up with privacy unless we were alone in the household

Although I was heavily indulged as a child, not only by loving parents, but an extended family of bachelor uncles and a maiden aunt, I never had either the coveted window or door until after marriage

The wisdom of the NYFD undoubtedly saved many lives during those years, and in retrospect must be appreciated.

However it did to some extent determine the diverse personalities of my friend, Joan and I. Her outgoing personality is a brilliant reflection of sunlight and shares her generosity of spirit with all she encounters.

Mine reflects the reclusiveness of yesteryear, and therein lies the tale of two different reactions and viewpoints. Something I think about often these days.

Of course, it is also one of the many links that have bound us in friendship for a lifetime,

Including of course, much laughter.