garth brooks in fayetteville

April 23, 2022

It’s good energy to write in the city — people moving — cars humming — traffic flowing constantly. Every new face reveals a new trace of emotion. This weekend people are coming outside to celebrate spring — to raise their voices in unison — to call the hogs and baton rouge with 80,000 strong at a garth brooks concert.

This afternoon the sun is shining and the wind is blowing everything into its place. Pedal pub peddlers peddling nearby. There is a natural feeling of vibrant energy with everyone moving and the view constantly changing. I sit still and watch from the steps of the fine arts center. Everyone rushing with some place to be and I just sit there writing quietly — observing.

There is a guitar player. A glass shop shapeshifter. A man sitting on a bench with his air pods in, day drinking, and taking it all in. I see friends meeting. Strangers having conversation. A sign for breakfast burritos — 24 hours a day. Cowboy hats. Boots. Children screaming because they are excited too. It’s different from being in the woods, but I find that sometimes, I like the city.

—

his name was Honey
reminding each of us
to pass the time
by celebrating life
walking down dickson street
giving hugs to strangers
and saying “I love you”
to everyone he would meet
including me