“That’s a conch from Turks and Caicos,” says James. “The red one’s a dried starfish from St. Thomas. Ah, and that one was a hermit crab. We watched it drop this one and move into a new home.” “Wow, James. What a cool bunch of shells.” Elfred puts the conch down. “What made you keep them all?” “Well, most of Read More
Tag: new york city
Diwali: Defining My Spirituality
by Theresa Nalini Mohabir-Pennella While the basis of Diwali is Lord Rama returning to the lands after 14 years of exile during which he defeated the demon king, Ravana; for me it is a celebration of my culture and heritage. An acknowledgement of my forefathers. The light of the diyas is calming. The tranquility it evokes re-centers me. It is Read More
Lament
City elephants never lament. We gave it up when we moved off the savanna. For one thing, city code discourages open-air burials. And everything needs a permit, even public displays of mourning. It makes sense. Can you imagine if we did it the old way? Traffic remains snarled near Columbus Circle while fifteen pachyderms continue their vigil for a herd member who Read More
Offer Your Seat
Would you offer your seat to someone on a public bus or subway? To whom would you offer it? I have my own criteria, which may not be as chivalrous as people like. First, though, some context. New York City Public Transit Unbelievably, I have been living in New York City for nine years. There was a time when I Read More
Sit
Ellerey wobbled and swayed as he walked. His ears drooped more than usual, he knew, and sweat pooled where his hat met his gray scalp. The big male felt exhausted, but an age-old aphorism kept him on his feet. At least he could rest on the subway. First fifteen minutes of respite until his station, then one last trudge to Read More