The other day in Austin, walking to my car with one hundred fifty pounds of dog, dove and parrot food, a twenty-something couple, perched like ravens, was eyeing me.  I see the young male bird, draped in a black trench coat to boots, turn to the ink-blue haired girl and say, "Watch this."
 
He sees a perfect target: older guy, probably friendly, a giver, buying a lot of pet food, loaded, dropping it into the trunk of a silver Mercedes. "Yeah, good mark."
 
His lady watches as he butt-struts up to the car.
 
I smelled him before he got there.
 
"Hey, yo' man. Spare a dime, dude? Looks like life's been blessin' you plenty." He wipes his hand under his nose and sniffles, big smile, mostly good teeth.
 
I lean over the car door and offer, "Listen. You look like a clean cut and capable kid. Your lady friend over there, too. Pretty. So, what do you do? You know, what's your talent set? You looking for work?"
 
"Hey man", he jams, "Me and my lady, we're just workin' our way to LA, dude. You know, passin' thru." He tries to play a more creative air. "Our car, like, is right over there", pointing to a sea of cars, "Just need some gas money. You know," smile turned up.
 
"Sorry buddy, you got the wrong guy. I'm an asshole who sees a perfectly capable young man trying to show off to an attractive young lady. You know, like he's so smart he can, you know, beat the street," I mimicked.
 
"Just beat it," I said sadly.
 
He looked at me like I had body slammed him. His girl stood across the parking isle with her arms folded, waiting. I hope she sees that he's getting exactly want he wants. So is she.
 
Most of the time, you see, we end up getting just about exactly what we really want.
 
The people that read Mondays with Marley are WAY a cut above that ambling parking lot fodder. Most of you know what you want.
 
You all give a shinola. You've got your act together and you know where you're headed. The more you are challenged, the more creative you become, the more dedicated and determined you are, to dream your dream, plan your plan and make your making.
 
If ever you've dreamed of a new home, if you plan someday to have that special place, designed just for you, check out Living Art by Marley.

Dare to Dream Out Loud!