I might Johnny while strolling downtown Grand Rapids.He was watching the construction workers at the Varnum Building add another section...He told me he's watched that building go up from day one, as well as two of the other biggest buildings in Grand Rapids. Unknowing as to how long ago they were built, he added that he was "much too old".He Went on to say he was 74 years old, and has lived in Grand Rapids most his life.
He then began to tell me how even though he was a paratrooper in Vietnam, for over 8 years, that no matter how much they paid him, he wouldn't work on anything higher than the first story.Kept repeating jollily "much too high for me".
We talked a a few minutes longer, and then he said he had to be on his way home, a little ways down town. He agreed to a portrait, and I told him I'd come visit again. We shook hands and parted ways, him with a child-like smile...
Sadly, as I walked back to my car, passing where I met him...He was back at his bench, staring off into the sky, at home.
Canon AE-1 l f/2.8 l 1/250 l Fuji Superia l ISO 400
