he had barely joined the ranks

as a teenager

when he walked into his favorite skater store

strolling along, passing shirts, pants, and boards

heading straight to the shoe arena

where he browsed, walked back and forth, inspecting various styles

until he made his choice.

so, he grabbed the single shoe off the wall display

and sat and waited for someone to help him.

hey, man, what can i help you with?, a young guy asked.

in response he casually answered

can i get these in a size 11? 

not realizing the impact that question would have on an older guy sitting nearby

the one who jerked his head in the young boy’s direction, observing his big feet.

then, he looked down at his own feet

and quietly, so very quietly, asked for his shoe choice in a pint size