"When angry, count to four. When very angry, swear."
- Mark Twain
They come in threes.
I met the first when I was in high school. It was careless and innocent. I didn't know any better.
I met the second when I had my first homo relationship. It was severe but quick. It shook me. I was caught off balance. But I learned the meaning of forgiveness.
The third showed up last week. I got frightened. It consumed me.
The signs were obvious but I chose to ignore them. I am a trusting person. One is innocent until proven otherwise. I even tasted the agave and took pleasure in being mashed and inebriated. I swallowed the spirit and swayed to the rhythm of brotherhood.
Still, it took me by surprise. I am accustomed to assaults but this one was discreet but painful. They say the best things in life are unexpected. I believe, the worst things are.
I can deal with anger. I can manage the pain. I can possibly forget.
But until he lifts a finger, I swear.
