The Soldier

He stole a gun last night, a telescopic rifle made for hunting. From a sixth floor window overlooking Main he thinks, 'how cool!' that the 'scope brings the people on the street so close and focused. He spends all day breaking down the gun and re-assembling it, polishing each part until it gleams. He fits the telescope, lifts the weapon to his shoulder for just another look. He'll bide his time until it's rush hour. The streets will be teeming with people making that last minute dash to get last minute presents for Christmas. The time has come, his palms are moist. In the cross-hairs a Salvation Army captain, a pregnant woman on a cell phone, an old man struggling with his walker, and children, lots of children. A half-hour passes. He slowly lowers the rifle and puts it back into its case. Another half-hour passes and he stumbles down the stairwell to the street, his mind confused and torn. Crossing a bridge he stops to hurl the case into the river. He wanders slowly home to his studio apartment, his haven of forgetfulness, his pressed and perfect Ranger uniform, and wonders why he just cannot stop crying. He stole a gun last night...