“I suppose anyone as old as me could say the same. When we’re young, we’re usually too busy or too self-absorbed to see it, but by the time one is almost ninety, this world has beat the sadness into him quite deeply. Every week there is some tragedy or reminder to keep it alive and well.” It was an unusual subject to discuss while standing in line for coffee. They placed their orders, stepped away from the counter, and continued talking. “Theo, I appreciate that you’re such a sensitive man. You have a tender heart.” “Not tender, Asher. Broken. My expertise in sadness is hard-earned.
