The More Things Change…

I’ve been preparing for this for a while, a real long while, it seems.

In first grade I made a game out of it, running across Algonquin’s then massive blacktop, criss-crossing, willing myself to run directly towards people and then feint at the last possible second. I dodged the other kids at recess for fun. Then I must have looked ridiculous, darting across in my little blue and white Nikes and my sometimes skirts. Now it is second nature to my steps. I walk with purpose against a dirtier concrete path, dodging women in abayas and street vendors, being sure to step lightly but surely, ready to change direction at any moment.

This is my first time walking Cairo by myself, sick of room service but going to McDonald’s anyway (I am not proud). It feels like I’m back on that blacktop at Algonquin.