october always brings to mind the opening of side show — 7 years ago this month … this was written for the closing when there was a real possibility that we would reopen … we didn’t but even so the experience was one of the best of my life …
(for the company of side show january 3, 1998)
think of this as a ride
with limited seating
granted to a select few
we gained admission
through talent
craft
experience
expertise
or ridiculous amounts of money
we were overjoyed
to be included
on the ride of a lifetime
thrills were promised
and thrills there were
such anticipation
on the long slow ascent
to the top of the highest hill
then whoosh
off we went
laughing and screaming
terror and exhilaration
combined
to make us feel
as alive as we’ve ever known
senses pounding
with the overload
of stimulation
stomachs flying
knuckles white
as we gripped the bar
hoping that
would keep our heads
from flying off
into the clouds
we were transported
beyond the pull of gravity
or mundane concerns
shrieking with delight
marveling that such intensity
is possible
in the midst of the routine
the surprises
just kept coming
and the twists and turns
grew scarier
as the ride progressed
until the last terrifying jolt
left us breathlessly clinging to each other
and now
we’re pulling into the dock
the bar is lifting
we’re getting out
going on
to other rides
or games
or home
to steady our over-taxed nerves
maybe we’ll come back
for another try
but even if not
oh what a ride we’ve had
and how remarkable
to have shared
the spine-tingling
heartinourthroat moments
with you
on the great white mid-way
of our dreams