on sheep and stairs
Dear Paulo,
One time, we decided to visit the night market to check out the bargains. You were sick then, it was raining. I asked if we needed an umbrella but you told me “We are not made of sugar.” So we walked 4 blocks of goods were you would stop to check some items that you found interesting.
At one point, we chanced upon a battery operated toy of sheep going up steps and sliding down a ramp. You thought it was ridiculously funny. I thought you were so cute liking it. We went past the store to check others. The rain did not stop until we were on our way home.
A few nights after, I was on that same market. We weren’t together that night, the first time that week. A friend and I saw it again, the sheep going up a flight of stairs. I told that friend that you found the gift funny. When we were about to move to another stall, I took one step back and bought the sheep. I gave it to you late that night, “todo mi carino,” I said.
Today you told me that you didn’t bring that gift home. You did not want to cram it in your small suitcase, and you didn’t want to hand carry it either. The sheep are there, somewhere, going up a flight of stairs, and down a ramp, over and over until the batteries run out.
And maybe, this is what we are. I give you everything, and you don’t want any of it. There is no space in your life for me, although I try so hard to be in it.
When will I get over you?
