LA X

Unfortunately, every great story has to come to an end. In my opinion, Lost is one of the greatest stories ever told. And tonight, the final chapter of this great story begins. Another step closer to the end of an era.

For me, it is probably the bitterest, sweetest moment conceivable. Lost has been a significant part of my life for the best part of 6 years. It has helped me through some tough times, it gives me something to look forward to when things are difficult, and it has given me hours upon hours of pure enjoyment and happiness. The bitterness comes from the fact that in 18 episodes time, the final ever Lost will air, and then what will I have to look forward to?

The sweetness comes from the fact that I know, the final season will be truly awesome, powerful, epic. I know the writers will have many vicious curve-balls to throw at us fans, and many fearsome twists and turns and cliffhangers. And I can't wait to find out what happens to Jack and co. in the end! Boy this is going to be one hell of a rollercoaster ride! 

Tonight, in about an hour and 15 minutes, is the season premier, and I am already nervous. God knows how I will be feeling in the moments leading up to and after the final episode. I will most definitely be laughing, or crying. Most probably both! And I'm sure I will have to write to express my feelings at those moments too. But for now, it's just nerves. 

But I guess it's too late to go back now. I am committed, almost to the point of [beyond] reason, to this show. I have been for almost a third of my life. It's time to let destiny run it's course...

I'll see you at LAX!

The Uncomfortable Passing

So, I'm walking down the street to the traino and a girl, about my age, maybe a little older, maybe a little younger, approaches me traveling in the opposite direction. Nobody else is around, just her and me, headed for an awkward collision. My first reaction, after the initial realisation that there is no other option but to pass her, is to get my head down. Maybe I will be able to pass, by pretending I never saw her coming? No, that's certainly not going to work! What do I do? She's so close now. Ok Chris, come on, lift your eyes, say something as she passes. Acknowledge her. Smile. Walk on by. Ok, here she is, we look up, our eyes meet, she bows her head and walks past without even a nod of the head or a smile! Boy was that awkward! 

Why does this always happen when I pass someone my age? Is there some secret code which states that a young person should never acknowledge the passing by of another? When you pass an older person it's easy to look up and say "good morning" or an appropriate alternative for the current time of day. When you pass someone younger it hardly matters, they might give you an inquisitive smile or comment, and you the same. But when it comes to someone your age, it's always the "keep your head down until you pass awkwardly", and continue on to your respective destinations.

What is so hard about saying hello to your respective teenager? Why is it so difficult to spare a little smile as you wander by? Until I find a stranger that can acknowledge my passing, and I theirs, it will continue to remain a mystery...