This makes me sad, are you referring to herpes that you got from someone you loved? I think that you have highlighted the key difference between the medical side of human's touching, and the emotional side that makes you not think about what you are doing. Love as a drug, that has an unfortunate aftermath. In general I prefer works that inspire, but if you are going for fatality and depression, great work.

Happines is a fine emotion indeed. I am not sure that this is really a short story, but I like it. I wish there was more metaphor.

this is great commentary, your reference to STARBUCKS and retail therapy is wonderful. I think that variety is being even more greatly accentuated by the internet and other communication technologies. As for the writing and word use I am no expert.

Sometimes I look at people in the reflection of the subway windows. They often don't notice right away. Your Poem makes me think of how reflections give permission to see the world differently. I like the comparison between birds and people, and into the social setting. I want to paint a picture from this poem.

I wish this could be more concise, and that it didn't rely on the word NORMAL so much.

I like the though in this piece, but can't help but think that this is not journalism. Isn't it poetry. I do believe in trust first. Until trust is broken, there is no need to not trust. However you should always start small. earn it.

beautiful, bravo! you win the prize. So true I love this.

thank you for thinking of this idea. "THE THANK YOU, THANK YOU NOTE" given to those who have given exceptional thanks for exceptional gifts. Let's make this happen. Hallmark is so over.