I had a date tonight. It wasn't with anyone you'd expect.

At 10:00 pm, I jumped in my car and went downtown. No one was there except for the occasional people outside a late night cafe smoking a cigarette. I absorbed the smell and the small talk. I continued to walk down the dimly lighted sidewalk with a trace of a smile on my face.

When the streets were empty, I found myself spinning around in the streets. I felt memories drift back. I was five again, dancing in the same street after the parade for Cherry Festival. I opened my eyes and saw Traverse City. My little city was shining in an entirely new light.

I realized that this was my first, my last, my only chance to dance in the downtown streets at night had come. I had only one week left to absorb what I wanted to take with me. And the company I had...was the best I could have. I didn't have to tell her that I had a great time, because it was just me. Being by myself didn't hurt. In fact, if anyone had come along, I'd have pushed them away.

I walked down to the bridge that passes over the Boardman River and stood what would be considered too close to the falling threshold.

When I got back into my car and drove away, I didn't feel resentful that it was over. I felt happy for the date.

Just me.