I have used to love Neruda's
Tonight I Can Write the Saddest Lines
But last night your words took over.
Why can't he be you? I mused.
I dreamed about you last night. It was the first time in three years. I cannot figure out what was the occasion or where did it happen. But I supposed there was a gathering of some sort. I saw familiar faces-- friends from college, someone from the office, long-lost friends.
There were several rows of white chairs, all facing in one direction. A friend and I were about to sit in the second row, the two seats nearest to the center aisle, when you showed up. You were wearing your usual grin and carrying a backpack. I was surprised and momentarily stood there, frozen. Luckily, I had easily recovered my stance and smiled back at you. You seemed to lose weight. Probably, it was because of the boyish haircut. Or, it could be your get-up. I really cannot tell but something had changed, which made my sight more fascinating.
You occupied the chair in the first row, the one nearest to the center aisle and infront of my seat. You put down your backpack on the chair and approached me. It was not so dramatic though (there was actually no drama involved). It was far from what we usually see in movies, when friends or lovers or family members once again meet after a long absence.
Our meeting was somewhat casual. Plain. Restrained. But you know what was so memorable in that fleeting trance? I noticed you were wearing a funny pair of chocolate brown socks. It has a cartoon character, which looks like Mickey Mouse, printed on both sides. I do not understand why, of all the things I could have observed and remembered, your funny pair of socks has registered in my memory. That was weird and, in a way, amusing.
After our small talk, someone had approached us and bluntly asked about a certain plan and date. I did not know how to react on that. Glad you saved me with your response. I am not really sure about the details you gave. But waking up at four o'clock in the morning with a smile on my face, somehow, gave me an idea of what it was and how the conversation ended.
*****
Currently listening to 3 Doors Down's Here Without You.
By Hoobastank
(E-C#m-A-B-E2-D, *C#m-A-B-E)
I'm not a perfect person
There are many things I wish I didn't do
But I continue learning I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go that I just want you to know
*I've found a reason for me, to change who I used to be
A reason to start over new, and the reason is you
I'm sorry that I hurt you
It's something I must live with everyday
And all the pain I put you through
I wish that I could take it all away
And be the one who catches all your tears
That's why I need you to hear
Repeat *
And the reason is you (3X)
I'm not a perfect person
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
Repeat *
I've found a reason to show a side of me you didn't know
A reason for all that I do and the reason is you
******
Ako kaya, kelan ko mahahanap yung reason ko?
As if you know me.
As if we have met.
As if I am somebody special.
As if you will stay.
As if for good.
*********
Hey, thanks for giving me enough excuse to smile in the morning.