My life's not that bad after all

The joy of living downtown isn't just having every gay bar within walking distance. It also brings you close to fucked up people who's lives have gone off the rails. Given my proximity to the local methadone clinic, the addicts are never far.

Anyhow, I was approached by a homeless guy in the parking lot the day I moved in here. He was some shabby, skeletal guy who looked like he hadn't bathed/shaved/showered for months. I'd never seen him before but since then I see him at least twice per week all over the place. It's weird how he stood out in my mind. It's not like he was attractive or anything.

Then I had a disturbing thought. Recently, I heard about a friend from high school. Apparently he's been in jail and he's addicted to crack or crystal meth.

Now I have a feeling that this emaciated guy might be my friend from high school. He's the right height and build but I can't tell from the face because he's like a skull with skin and a beard. I thought he was way older than me but I guess meth (or whatever) will do that to you.

I don't think I'll ever ask his name. I'm not sure it's a friendship I'd like to rekindle. But even if it's not him, I feel sorry for the family and friends who care about him.