Feelings

Is there a better scent than new-fallen rain in the suburbs? And I don't mean eight hours or more passed, but only a few minutes ago, as the scent of the wet sidewalk is still wafting up towards your nose? The breeze is still heavy, but almost silken and cool against your skin? And the tires are still making that sound as they roll over wet pavement, sounding like a cross between a tacky stick, and a slick slip?

Few things can evoke an emotion quite like aromas. A couple of days ago, I was walking to the store on an errand, and it had just finished raining. The above scenario was playing out before me, and for the entire time I was outside (even when it began to rain again, I had my Cincinnati Reds golf umbrella handy), I felt almost TOTAL bliss. It was an indescribable (almost) feeling, as if I were in the exact perfect moment where I was supposed to be. I have experienced this type of day before, but in no other place have I felt this feeling.

I guess that it is rare for someone to feel that they live in the perfect place for themselves, seeing as how the human species is somewhat migratory and nomadic by nature and necessity. Most people don't think too much of the city, village, town, or township in which they reside, but I do. For the place where I am always evokes a feeling, an emotion that affects me deeply. In the case of my current city, I feel as if I belong here. Why, I am not sure, as it is full of old money, nouveau rich, and middle-class folk, and I am stone poor, but for some reason (and I don't want to fight it), I am most at home in this place.

Maybe it is because I graduated High School here. Maybe it's because I was forced to move from here 14 years ago, and struggled for 12 years to come back. Maybe it's because a few of my friends remain here. Or maybe it's because I am a father, and I want my children to have the same chances I did, and just not blow it like I did. Hellz, maybe it's all the above. Whatever the reason, I am glad I CAN feel this way.

Side note: Is it weird that rain and storms make me happy, while sunshine depresses me?