A Turning Point in Life
It was 1978, a time of self-discovery and growth. I had just turned down a lucrative job at Filene’s, despite the attractive commission, due to my own insecurities and fears of being misunderstood. Instead, I opted to work for Pokey, donning dungarees and work boots, and embracing the great outdoors.
Reunited with Old Friends
Pokey’s crew consisted of many familiar faces from my high school days, including Elvis, who had moved to Sharon from Jamaica Plain in first grade. We shared a special bond, often joking about our birthdays, which fell on consecutive days. Our daily routine involved leaving the job site for lunch, driving into town in Elvis’s iconic ’59 Cadillac Coup De Ville, and scrounging up whatever change we could find to buy a meal.
A Simple Act of Kindness
One day, as I was preparing a humble tuna sandwich in my apartment, I thought of Elvis and decided to share my meager meal with him. I wrapped the sandwich in an old school baggie and handed it to him as he drove by, beeping his horn. The look of joy on his face was priceless, and it was a small gesture that strengthened our friendship.
A New Venture
Elvis had an idea – we should quit working for Pokey and start painting houses to earn more money. With his father’s experience as a house painter and my grandfather’s expertise, it seemed like a great opportunity. However, things took a turn when Elvis’s performance suffered due to his frequent marijuana use. We got into an argument, and he quit, leaving me to finish a massive two-story house and barn project on my own.
Reflection and Redemption
As the summer drew to a close, I realized that many of my friends were heading back to school, while I was stuck in a rut. I decided to take control of my life and apply to Northeastern University to pursue a degree in physical education and become a teacher and coach. After being accepted, I set out to find a affordable place to live near my girlfriend’s dorm on Beacon Street.
A New Chapter
Exhausted from a day of searching, I stumbled upon Norge Realty, just two doors down from Al Capone’s Pizza on Beacon St. The realtor showed me a studio apartment in the same building, and I knew it was meant to be. As I looked around, I felt a sense of hope and determination. I was finally on the path to creating a better future for myself.
We’re on a road to somewhere, and the future is looking bright.
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