I don’t remember when it was in the 1950s, but it was the start of another school year in another school. We often moved as my father climbed the corporate ladder. The school hadn’t started, and we were out on the playground. I was by myself because I didn’t know anyone. I started thinking, and it was something I was never to forget. I was thinking about the future. The far distant future. I knew some sure things would happen in my life. I would get married. There would be a war for me to take part in. I knew my grandfather’s time had been in World War I. I also knew my father’s time had been World War II, so I was sure there would be a war someplace for me to fight in. As people started to head into the school, I threw up as I usually did, starting a new school. Then I joined the other students going into the school.
Fast forward to August 15, 1967. The day after, my wife had died in childbirth along with our baby girl. That day in the 1950s in that schoolyard returned to me in my thoughts. I realized I had completed my future. I had married. Vietnam provided the war for me to serve in. I had no future that had comforted me for years. I was lost.
One Response
I have tried to reply and answer your questions, but your email address “flatduck@Googlemail.com” returns an error address. If you can send me a working address, I will reply. Thank you.