“Get busy living or get busy dying.” That’sgoddamn right.

For the second time in my life, I’m guiltyof committing a crime, parole violation. Of course, I doubt they’ll toss up anyroadblocks for that, not for an old crook like me. I find I’m so excited I can barelysit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it’s the excitement only a freeman can feel, a free man at the start of a long journey, whose conclusion isuncertain.

I hope I can make it across the border.

I hope to see my friend and shake his hand.

I hope the Pacific is as blue as it hasbeen in my dreams.

I hope.