The other side of the mountain (from Bubba's journal - Sunday, July 3, 1994)

For as long as I can remember, and I am sure that it goes far beyond that, 100 has been the magical number when it comes to human age. Therefore, the 50 year mark has represented the top of the mountain. All behind it is seen as the side of the ascension (uphill). All before it, a descending journey (downhill).

At 53, I've had three years to acquaint myself with the side of this mountain that many will never see. Those who are "coming," few realize, are quite "open" and vulnerable to the skilled and gifted "story-tellers" among those who are "going." Open and vulnerable to exploitation.