Michael Allen Roche is an author from Hampden county. He is an active member of Write-Up Springfield. He shares his life and home with his husband, Earskin Sloan. His short stories have appeared in a variety of anthologies. He also enjoys writing memoirs, essays, and prose.
“Perspective”
Friday afternoon, on my way to the hospital…
NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS
Laughing and playing – smile at me as I drive by. Feeling connected to others; the universe makes sense. I needed hope. I saw happy hopeful faces. I heard laughter. I knew you’d be alright.
PEOPLE WALKING DOWN THE SIDEWALK
Couples walking hand in hand. I feel the love. The universe makes sense. I know you’ll be alright.
CONVENIENCE STORE CLERK
“Have a nice day.” I could feel that she meant it. She somehow knew that I needed to hear it. The Universe makes sense.
DRIVER OF ONCOMING CAR
I see him swerve and notice he was holding his cell phone. I’m sure he’ll be more careful now; He’s probably dealing with some emergency. I hope he gets home safely. The universe can be so random.
BICYCLIST AT INTERSECTION
He crossed in front of me, although I had the right of way. I’m so thankful that I didn’t hit him. Sometimes I question the universe.
SATURDAY NIGHT, Death changes everything. You are gone. The universe is cruel.
MONDAY MORNING on my way to funeral home…
NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS
Laughing and playing. They are insensitive to my pain. Their happiness mocks me. They are evil.
PEOPLE WALKING DOWN THE SIDEWALK
Couples pretending that they can feel love as I had for you. Their very existence annoys me. They do not deserve happiness.
CONVENIENCE STORE CLERK
Patronizing. Fake smile. She pretends to care. Don’t tell me to have a nice day. I’ll have whatever kind of day I choose. I wish you were dead.
DRIVER OF ONCOMING CAR
I lay on my horn and flip the bird. He had swerved into my lane! He’s lucky I don’t chase him down, run him off the road, and kill him!
BICYCLIST AT INTERSECTION
I hate you for your fitness, for your youth, for your existence. You deserve to die. I would drive right over you now, just for fun, if I’d not just had my car washed.