10:06 PM

Number 7 train to Flushing Main Street.

Squeak. Doors open.  “The next stop is Court Square.”

“Ride inside. Stay alive.” This announcement is meant to discourage subway surfing, a dangerous sport.

Several hundred commuters ride this train in the city that never sleeps. (“Never sweeps,” says the subway ad for Swifer).

We’re passing the Amtrak train yards. Your train starts here.

“Remember the best way to get out to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is with the MTA.” The US Open is going on and the 7 train will take you there.

The Queens tract workers are on this train. They were also on the Metro North train going to Peekskill earlier this evening. We’re happy about other Mennonites in Queens.

“This is Woodside.” Woodside. That’s where it all began in 1988 when we first came to the city.

“This is 69th Street.” Here you’ll find the Filipino stores and restaurants. “74th Street, Broadway.” Many people change trains here. The people of India, Bangladesh, Tibet, and Nepal come to this station and exit to the ethnic stores and restaurants they’re acquainted with.

“This is 82nd Street.” This is where we leave the 7 train and walk through well lit, throbbing streets to our quiet apartment on Layton Street.

Good night! Berniece