I have traveled full circle. Nearby, a timed train bells rings for the Metro that moves through this South Shore area. It's the same train that crossed the front of our house back when we first came to Chicago in March of 1969. With each scheduled passing, I am reminded of a time and when my fascination with America loomed large. This began in my early childhood and while still living in the waterfront suburbs of Athens. As far back as I can remember, I dreamt of someday living in America. It was a dream I spoke of to all who would listen then.
March 15, 1969. I vividly remember our first night here. Unable to sleep, I stayed up until dawn looking out the front windows with excitement and wonderment. My father moved us in to a second floor walk-up apartment that was covered in asphalt tiles. I recall it's winding staircase and how it felt like a palace. All six of us shared a tiny 2 bedroom apartment just two blocks from Rainbow Beach. The Illinois Central ran it's tracks across the front our new "home" and Windsor Park was the stop we learned to ride from on weekends, taking us "down-town" to shop along the State Street shops. And although everything has changed since then, it all remains the same with the hourly sounds of the train, taking me back to a time when life held promise for me and our family.
Lake Michigan lies as magnificent as ever. And although it's water is sweet; unlike the Mediterranean I grew up in, it still mesmerizes. The waterline holds the horizon and the Chicago skyline; now densely populated with clusters of buildings that reflect the sky's mood. The low brick and mortar buildings of yesteryear only a sprinkle amongst the new glass towers.
After the many places I've come to call "home" over the years, I have returned to where it all started.
I have chosen to live in a pre-war building that daily reminds me of my first days here, and with it's tall ceilings, it gives me the room and space I need to breathe while indoors.
A week from today will be my birthday, as I am reminded of the paths I've traveled only to return to where it all began; the South Shores of Chicago on the water's edge of Lake Michigan.
ADM
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