When I was a young boy my mother took my brothers and I to a wilderness refuge in southern California called Neil Park. There were hills and a small rushing brook. There were jackrabbits and great horned owls that swooped upon us as we rode, shrieking, in the back of the maroon colored VW microbus, rear hatch open.
I captured what looked like a baby fish in the stream, and put it in a paper cup. I was somehow able to keep the creature alive without spilling too much water. Arriving home hours later I poured its contents into a jar.
Staring at the one-inch creature through the transparency of its new glass home, my eyes widened in horrible recognition, and a chill went through my spine. This was not a fish at all, but some species of insect larva.
This lesson of mis-identity has stayed with me throughout my life.
Imagine finding someone, identifying her as your soul mate, and taking her home. One day, months later, perhaps years, the hair on your neck rises at the sickly realization she isn't just a changed person, but an insect in larval form you have already displaced into your own glass-lined domicile.
Freelance journalist Gregory G. Lewis was a regular contributor to the West County News of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. As a correspondent to several Franklin County towns Mr. Lewis was better known by his Arts & Entertainment contributions, especially On the Marquee, a review of the region's outstanding art, music and drama.
"My assignments took me to dinners and breakfasts with the Governor; and to the 2006 Massachusetts Democratic Convention where I met candidate Deval Patrick, US Senator John Kerry, and even Kitty Dukakis," said Mr. Lewis.
Since the West County News closed its doors in August, Mr. Lewis has pursued the night life and high life of South Florida, in the
Proustian tradition. He now carouses tropical climes and exotic personalities, capitalizing on years of experience thrusting himself in the public eye.
His many published and exclusive stories can be found on his website, The Newsketeer!
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