Passing Time in Byzantium

..Byzantium has begun to look suspiciously like my hometown. It has the same people, the same houses, the same goings and comings. But I am a very wise child seeing things very differently. The activities and interests of adults mystify me. They appear senseless. It is like watching the TV with the sound off--and suddenly realizing how ridiculous people actually are.

I expect adults will in turn regard me as ridiculous. Actions people might accept in a child may not seem appropriate in a grandfather. I won't be distressed. I am looking forward to new heroes and new adventures. And if you ask me where I've been I'll say "out"; and if you ask me what I've been doing I'll say "nothing."

That's the way we pass the time in Byzantium.

Going the Distance: One Man's Journey to the End of His Life George Sheehan, M. D.

clipped May 22, 2003

Collection: Philosophy