An Ever Green Day
By Reno Litterio

Quincy - Have you ever experienced a morning without aches or pains and a smile on your face? Your movements seem to be effortless, as you begin some stretching exercises and you are more than eager to jump in the shower. You adjust the water temperature and let your thoughts travel beyond reality, as the water flows. Refreshed, you open the window and feel the warmth of the sun, and a cloudless blue sky beckoning you.

In time I dress, drink a glass of orange juice and glance at the calendar. My day’s schedule has no urgent time table. I take a more relaxed attitude behind the wheel of my vehicle. Stopping at the copy center, I’m greeted with nods and smiles, only because they’ve become accustom to this face of mine. Driving within the speed limits, I head for Quincy center, and upon reaching my parking destination, I feel confident that my vehicle is secure, since my parking space reads members only. At the variety store, near the T station, I buy several newspapers, the clerk hands me my change. “You gave me the wrong change, it’s too much,” I said. Looking directly at me with a look of surprise, he says “You are one hell of a guy.” “I think so, and that’s only one part of me” as I left with a smile.

After crossing Hancock Street, the next stop is the bank, two blocks north. I enjoy walking and try to log a mile each day. At the tellers’ window, while finishing my transaction and thinking, no wrong change coming my way here. Next the President Place, with my cup of coffee and papers I finally relax, when I suddenly hear my name being called, definitely, it’s someone I know; with updates and pleasant conversation we enjoy our time together.

A senior citizen with cane, struggling to cross Coddington Street, caught my eye. With a smile I said, “I don’t have a cape to put at your feet, but my hand will get you across.” We both laughed. After many other stops including the post office and research time at the library, the clincher would be driving home.

From point A to point B destination, at every intersection with traffic lights I encountered a GREEN light. Have you ever experienced this? Is this possible? The number of green lights I went through consecutively without stopping, as I recall, was nine. This I call my “ever green day.” Can this happen twice?

About The Author
Reno J. Litterio is the previous Editor and Publisher of The Constellation Newsletter. Litterio was the co-founder of the Ward 4 Senior Citizens Social Group in Quincy in 1992 and is now chairman and Director of the group. You can reach Mr. Litterio at renowarior@aol.com.