A Mile in My Shoes

     "I'm leaving, and I'm taking my son with me."  Her voice was strong and contemptuous. 

     His voice equally as harsh, rose up against hers, “then go, and don't forget your toothbrush.  You were nothing without me and when you walk out that door, you'll be even less than that." 

     She laughed aloud as she walked to the door, holding her son's hand firmly.  When she had slammed it shut behind them, she began to cry, for she believed in her heart that unfortunately he might be right. 

     There she stood, Allysa Oliphant Jackson, with her four-year-old son Jalen at her side.  She measured a full five feet six inches.  She weighed one hundred thirty one pounds, and was still in great shape even after having Jalen.  Her hair was more brown than black, and if she freed it from the captivity of the bun that she wore it in, it would travel nearly halfway down her back. 

     Her father, whom chose long ago to be a never present figure in the lives of his children, was a full blooded decent of an eastern Cherokee tribe.  Her soft, straight hair as well as the larger part of her good looks were predominantly due to the beauty of his heritage. 

     Her nose was straight but not pointy.  Her lips were full and as close to perfection as any fashion model.  They accented the most beautiful and breathtaking smile God had ever created.  Her pecan complexion was offset by chestnut brown eyes.  They were easily her most beautiful features.  Her eyes were deep set and appeared to be hooded.  They sat invitingly under eyebrows that appeared to be handcrafted for her and were as dark as Midwest storm clouds. 

     The rain beat on the pavement as hard as her husband had beat on her only minutes before. 

"Mommy it's raining.”  Jalen understated the obvious. 

Actually, it was raining harder than Allysa could remember it ever having rained before.  She started walking towards the bus stop, with still no destination in mind.  Jalen looked back at the three story brownstone, just as he did every other time he left it.  This time was different.  He couldn't find the words to explain it if he wanted to, but he had a feeling that somehow he wouldn't be coming back.