For far too long I've gazed at you, a yearning from afar. As if you were some distant city longed for within my heart. There is a roaring deep within me. A self indictment of my heart. The regrets of all I've lost thus far.

I've dream t of the espresso served hot in your cafe's. Of searching those unknown streets and shadowed dark doorways. . Is all this but a dim and distant dream? Or will I travel there one day? The smells of the busy markets . Intoxicate and lure. The taste of unfamiliar dishes like the scent of your perfume.

But like any other city in any other place. Imperfections do exist like the wrinkles in your face. The broken glass in the back alleys. The addicts in dismay. But in counterpoint to misery the cathedrals shine in soft suns rays. As monks chant in morning stillness to greet a brand new day.

I want to see the opera and drink exotic wine. I must buy the tickets.

I've got to make the time. What mysteries await me in this distant city only seen in dreams? Of architecture and sunsets and undiscovered things. Will she welcome me with open arms like a lover missed for years. Or will she bring me sadness and bitter anguished tears.

Will I become another crime statistic to read about in news? Will I end up a vagrant wandering and alone. Will her streets protect me or steal all that I have ever worked for and loved? Will she cast me out and betray me?

Make me an exile someday? Remains to be seen. But hopefully ....ah yes, hopefully. She will be my home.

Written by: Phil G. Inman Sr.

Dedicated to Kassie