Wednesday Afternoon

Contemporary contemplation of a conundrum called reality. As I sit here at this lounge, or bar, in downtown Astoria my mind is filled with so many thoughts about life. People strive forward, forever humping the American dream which lay in the slot machines sitting in the corner. I, too, was just there... And, I came away with more than I put in.... If only just $5 more, it was still a microcosm of an American dream which we all search for at some point in life... one small dream which I just lived out in this small Oregon town.

I noticed something interesting while 'people watching' this evening. Instead of using the main entrance, a lady ventured into the 'restaurant half' of this fine establishment only to enter the bar inconspicuously. Now, a people watcher, -I am- and, as a people watcher, -I saw-. Why would this lady use the restaurant as her gateway to liquid salvation when the main entry way would prove far less complicated? Does she have a hidden life which exists within the dark walls of this local watering hole? A life only to be disembarked from upon her departure? As interest begins to interact and mingle into interference within this existence, I must ask: Who ARE these people? Why are they here?