My Familiar Friend

[1957 Chevy]

He is not someone I welcome with open arms. He is not someone to whom I send Christmas cards or invite to matinees. He has never helped me move or given me a ride to the airport. He is not someone I would call supportive, but he is reliable. Reliable for always showing up at the worst possible times, reliable for always making a joke of my life and challenging my self-confidence. I do not like him, this friend, but I do not hate him either. His habits are familiar to me and in this familiarity, I find some strange comfort. I know where I stand with him, and I know what to expect. My friend can provide me with no surprises. He is nothing if not consistent; and consistency makes people feel safe...even if that consistency is in losing.

My familiar friend has many names, but the one I prefer to use is 'Mr. Busto'. It's the name that makes him sound the most...friendly. Mr. Busto. I wonder how long his visit will last for this time...

-- I get pensive when I go broke.