Circus life under the big-top world; we all need the clowns to make us smile.Through space and time, always another show; wonderin' where I am, lost without you.
Faithfully by Journey
"Wonder," I said stepping into her sanctum, "I'm reborn."
Copyright 2000 - 2024 Gwnfydd Jirlds
"What, if anything, are you going on about?" she said taking her gaze off her computer screen and looking directly into my eyes. It's always a bit of a shock to be suddenly struck by those emerald greens of hers. It's not unlike the experience of having the sun pop out from behind the clouds when you're least expecting it. I took the impact full on. After reeling and rocking around her office for a bit, I finally steadied myself and was able to respond.
"I'm talking about my new life. All the signs point to success, Poopsie. Driving home from The Teeters I was listening to Faithfully, that song by Journey."
"I know the one," she said, "Circus life under the big-top world, but what about it?"
The comment got right by me. Circus life I wondered? The big-top world? What if anything did she mean by it? The only thing I recognized from the song was the title, Faithfully. But I'm familiar with the better half of the sketch and her tactics, and was not to be so easily deterred in my life-changing goals.
"I heard the song like never before," I said. "It was speaking directly to me, telling me that I will have everything I need to recreate my life as long as I am true to myself. And pay close attention, Poopsie, because here comes the clincher--faithfully."
I may have exaggerated somewhat. But the spirit of my comment was truthful and accurate. Exaggerated to be sure but still truthful.
"You seem to be a tad manic," she said. "Do you need to tell me something? I'll give you five minutes but only if you make more sense than you're making now."
"You know that Will Ferrell film, Stranger Than Fiction? In that movie, his character discovers the life he's living is being written, in real-time, by a fiction writer."
"I'm with you so far," she said, "and I commend you on becoming clear and succinct."
"My plan is to become the main character in a book, or rather in The Circular Journey, which is written by me of course. That in itself isn't a new idea but what is new is that my story will describe a path to lead me to the life I desire; a new life of purpose and fulfillment. "
"Finally!" she said. "You've decided to open the gate and step out onto the yellow brick road, haven't you?"
"That's the plan," I said. "This new path will lead me to the Emerald City, but unlike Dorothy, I'll never want to go back to Kansas again."
"Alright," she said, "I can see that you're committed to your new plan and to be completely honest, I think it's a sweet idea and if you include the cats in your new life, then I support you."
"Wonder," I said, and I'm not ashamed to say that there was a bit of throat-lumpiness in my voice when I said it, "There is none like you, none."
"But let me be clear," she said, "I don't want to hear anything about sewer harpies and soul vessels. I'll continue to accept Princess Amy but that's as far as I'm willing to go."
She raised an eyebrow and with a little smile, she gave me a metaphorical pat on the head that makes me feel that she's pleased with something I've said or done.
"Deal?" she said.
"Not just a deal, Wonder, it's an Atchafalaya Deal."
"Wha'do you mean? What's Atchafalaya got to do with it?"
"Oh, well, you have me there; nothing really I suppose. I've just always liked the word and it's fun to use now and then."
"One more suggestion," she said. "I think you should get Lupe and Claudia involved in working out the details."
"Just as you say," I replied.
"And why don't you include Princess Amy while you're at it," she said.
"Consider it done," I said but I immediately felt the ending could have used something with more zing like "Make it so, Data. Engage!
I'll try to do better next time. Building a new life takes time, much like making friends takes time. I know that because I often hear versions of the same from Ms. Wonder.
And don't forget dear reader that you're an important part of my journey. I will not be successful if you aren't involved. Check back often for updates on my progress.
Atchafalaya!