New York City
My Big Brother (6 years older than me) came up to visit me while I was living in Manhattan. It was an excellent excuse for too much drinking...and we did. On the way home, after mixing Guinness with Jamieson's, I was a little confused as to the exact train to get back down to the Staten Island Ferry (yes, I lived on Staten Island when I first moved there and yes, I still feel the great shame of it).

After figuring it out, we boarded the NY City Subway to head downtown to the ferry and then home...I was tired...it was after 4am...and of course, we both fell asleep on the train. We missed our stop and I ended up being woken up in Brooklyn by a kind and concerned NYC Policeman...poking his nightclub in my chest(thank God thats the only place he poked that nightclub). I sprang to my feet (not recognizing the station) and asked "What train takes me to the Staten Island Ferry?" and the copper said "That train across the platform."

"Thanks" said I as I dashed across to catch the train which was preparing to leave the station.

"HEY! Arent you going to take your buddy?!" asked the nice Copper. "DOH!"

So I get my brother up and we just make the train.

At this point, people are heading to work in the City. We finally make it to the Ferry Terminal and board the boat for the ride to Staten Island. Of course, we both immediately laid our heads down on the benchs and slept for the 15 minute journey. When the Ferry docked, up I went and made my way to my apartment and went immediately to bed.

After about 45 minutes of blissful sleep I awoke, needing a drink of something and went to the kitchen, opened up my refrigerator and wondered: Why are there TWO half drank bottles of Coke in there? Then it hit me: I had left my Brother, who did not know NYC at all, on the Ferry.

The sprint to the ferry terminal was occupied by only one single thought: How on earth do I tell my Mom that I lost my Big Brother?

As far as I know, he is still on that ferry, sailing Happily, back and forth. Fortunately, the Staten Island Ferry sells beer.

Whenever I see the Staten Island Ferry in a film or on a news story, I cringe.

Sic Transit Gloria Mundi.
( Citadel Because the world needs less morons, Wed 30 Nov 2005, 16:41, Reply)