Chicago, Meat Packing District

...Dedicated to the memory of my great Uncle Fred, Spanish American Veteran & worked a "night job" during the depression, while supporting wonderfully my Mom's family on the south side of Chicago, when she was young, Grandpa had lost everything, but Uncle Fred saved our family I have never been to another planet, Tho when I walk the early morning streets Of the meat packing district, my feet have Left this earth. Floating unease courses Through my body... lights, sights, sounds And smells never before registered in my Physical and emotional inventory confront Me. My ancestors travelled these same paths Many years ago, usually with shoulder holsters And homemade body armor. My senses Understand this heritage, I traverse Cautiously as if walking downhill on a Pilgrimage. Tonight I shall visit Mars, in the Shadow of Venus, cradled in the arms of the Crescent Moon.