A Fire in the Rain

Dr. Robert McInerney

We’re gaining some momentum, so to speak, with the mobile thriving respite. We’re learning the value of being resolute (not absolute!). It was cold and raining, quite miserable out, but we were able to start a fire and we set up some tents. One fellow came and sat with us, ate a sandwich, had some coffee, and talked with us about Tom Brady. His favorite song is The Gambler. We played it and sang together. A mom and her little boy came, and we talked about art projects we can do at upcoming respites. One fellow came, had a “delicious” hamburger, and encouraged us to create a web page. He said he'd follow us to our other respites around town. Another fellow came, about my age, and had a great time talking with us. He excitedly told us all kinds of stories, always noting the exact date and month! He’d exclaim “It was 1984” and then regale us. At one point, he told us that he invented homogenized milk! And so, we asked how that came about and talked about the homogenization process. The students were perfect. He thanked us for a good time, and said he’d come back again.