January 3

Scientists have discovered that dark energy is not a new constituent
of space, but rather has been present for most of the universe's history.

Our galaxy is mute, desolate. The space between planets is a long
pause. Stars have an air of tragedy, but no pain-- lucky them!

I read Hubble reports this morning with Dad. Morning rush, Starbucks.
Moms wove hither and thither between chairs. The more they wove,
the firmer my conviction that I'm not destined for motherhood.
There's a reason I'm equipped with a sizeable brain, upright posture
and opposable thumbs, and the reason is not lactation. The thought of
an infant draining my resources is ga-ga-ga-gross.

"I'm more of a hunter-gatherer," I muttered. Dad looked up, a shadow
of concern crossing his jowls. There was a moment of silence while I
formulated a diversion.

"What good are nipples on a man?" I asked.

"Well," he began. "Men have breast tissue. Men have the potential to
produce milk."

For a few minutes, I saw things at a strange angle. An example of
parallax, perhaps; that phenomena where an object appearing to move
signals only a shift in your perspective.

I have no conclusions, so I'm just going to stop.

Cassidy

P.S. Attached is a snapshot of my winter helmet. This climate
demands protection, if not warmth.

Index