The neighbors

I remember when they moved in. Her parents were excited; unloading furniture. Saying hi to everyone and checking us neighbors out at the same time.  They seemed satisfied with me — being I could be her and his parent.

The young couple had two Corgi dogs so we were often out walking the dogs at the same time and made small talk. They were friendly and I like them. One of the first things I noticed after they moved in was this “Home Sweet Home” door mat.

I was excited for them too. Kids, probably just out of college moving in to their first apartment. She seemed to rule the roost. Other young couples came to visit. They were both good to their dogs. Good kids.

And I realize, I’m like those old women in your neighborhood who know everything that is going on because they are the people who are home all day, are observant, and are nosy. But, ya know, that is where I’m at in my life.

Then, about nine months in, I’m working from home and walking Buddy.  I notice moving trucks and the same parents loading furniture in the truck, with sullen faces and not willing to make eye contact. She is there but really not making eye contact and barely holding it together.

She left the “Home Sweet Home” mat.

He finished out the lease, but really he wasn’t home much. The dogs were gone. Then the cleaning crew showed up to get the apartment ready for the next renters.

He left the “Home Sweet Home” mat.

Sometimes life is sad. I don’t know what happened to them. Maybe in the end, it is the best thing. But it’s still sad.

To moving on. Boldly. Just leave that old thing behind.

— Namaste