I was in a mini-mart. I was getting toilet paper And smokes. And beer. I was very upset; everyone Should be very upset today. Some more than others; But everyone should be. I have my reasons. All should Have one. My neighbors aren't upset. They Are having a party. I was upset by that. But I didn't Tell them that, nor why.

So I was in the mini-mart. I'm Upset. I asked the guy behind the counter if they'd a Rise in alcohol sales today. He smiled, jovially, and Said yes. One of few sincere seeming smiles today. I still hated the smile. Someone in line joked that The bars had seen that too. I agreed. I didn't think it Amusing. I didn't smile. I collected the stuff I needed To purchase. I walked to the counter, thinking that I Was talking to a like-thinking soul. I asked why is It that it seems no one is upset around here. He smiled, Jovial, and said, "ask him." He pointed to a guy who's Always pretty friendly. Needing some good thoughts, I looked towards him and asked an unhappy question With the jocularity I had been taught by the clerk. The Same question I'd asked the clerk. He was angry with Me. I tried asking again, thinking he'd misheard. He Disappeared behind a screen. I was upset. I walked Up steps. He popped out from behind a screen. He Pushed the door (at the top of the stairs) that I had Not entered into my face. It said employees only. He'd asked if I could read. I had not entered. I was looking For someone as upset as me. I'd found him. He didn't want to talk to me.

He had his reasons. I accept that. I had mine. That Clerk has a whooping coming to him. The ignorant fuck. So when I got home I put on "What's so funny 'bout peace, love, and understanding?" Elvis Costello. On repeat. Repeat, often. For my neighbors.

Real loud. They started pounding the walls. It does Nothing to evil to speak sense. I just don't mind Annoying it.

Sorry for your loss. I'm so so sorry, too. Who ain't sorry? Who ain't so sorry that it counts?