Jon

You probably didn't expect anyone to approach you. You do look a bit intimidating with those tatoos on your head. You've got this sort of scowl on your face, I didn't realise that is only your default expression until you grinned at me. I was so relieved when you didn't tell me to piss off.

People do get nervous of the men who sit on your bench. With the Special Brew cans scattered about and the cigarette ends. People probably wouldn't know what to say to you if they stopped by on their lunch break. Not that they ever do.

I am just the same actually, it's like there's this line between you and me and it's not to be crossed. What is that line? Is it because I live in a house? Is it because I'm too tired and overwhelmed by my own problems? You wear your problems on the outside with your peircings and bruises. I was keeping mine under my coat because I've got too much lose by letting them out, I've got my boss to keep happy. I've got a report that has to be in on Friday.

I'm worn out with conversations that always go the same way. They are contained in structures that are safe and predictable. The people I live with know what they are supposed to do and say. They know there is one solid way to pay the mortgage and get the job done. So they do it. Is everybody in this city miserable and lonely?

I haven't smoked a cigarette since I left uni. It felt good even though I thought I was going to throw up. Your bench has the best view of the whole park. Squirrels come and eat biscuits out of your hand. I wish I could have got my son out of school to come and see it.

Your children are grown up now and you don't know where they are. That made me think of my mother. I should ring her more often. I feel guilty about that.

You said your name is Jon, I said that's funny, my name is John! You said you spent half your life reminding the people in the dole office that you spell it without an 'h'. You've got the knack for telling jokes. When I got back, I was still laughing at the one about the chicken in the graveyard.