May 1, 2017, Prescott-
I sat in a quiet, uncrowded taqueria, this evening.
The solemn crew of cooks and servers remained
as earnest and dedicated in their craft, as always.
Don Jefe, though, was somewhere else.
The motorcycle had been on the downhill of this road, countless times.
Its rider had gone to visit his friends, in the small town,
southwest of here, countless times.
That sunny, windy afternoon, last week,
he was taken somewhere else.
It’s not clear why she,
with both hands on the wheel of her truck,
felt it imperative to hurtle along,
pell mell, at breakneck speeds.
All that is known,
is that she over-corrected,
having realized she was in,
over her head,
on a winding road.
Her mind, it seems, had been somewhere else.
The young worker was on his way uphill,
driving into town, to put in his time.
He was a tad behind schedule,
but it wasn’t important enough,
to risk life and limb.
He was driving prudently,
and wondered why
the truck ahead of him
was taking the bends
so fast.
He saw the truck and motorcycle
collide.
He saw the rider, flying somewhere else.
The taqueria owner opened his shop,
most mornings, at seven,
and was usually there for the closing,
twelve hours later.
His family, and a devoted crew
kept the place flowing,
building a dedicated base
of regular diners
and take-out customers.
Tonight, as I enjoyed
an enchilada-style burrito,
with a side of solemnity,
the messages of love
and gratitude
filled the shop’s windows.
Vases of flowers began to spread
along a small section
of the storefront.
Bright, multivariate,
in colour and hue.
That’s how the taqueria owner
would want it,
bringing joy out of pain,
as he watches,
from somewhere else.
Adios, Don Jayme.
How sad — unfortunately motorcycles always lose in competition with larger vehicles! I hope the family will be able to continue with the taqueria to support themselves.
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They will do fine. Jayme has built a deep team.
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Loving written Gary.
Many times Don met me at the window handing me my meal to take into the afternoon shift. Always friendly and supportive of this hard working gal. He and his family are in my prayers.
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Jayme was a true believer.
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Lovely tribute.
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My honour, JR, and thanks.
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wow. A message to stay alert and safe. And a tribute to someone who has built something amazing. I’m sorry for the loss.
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We never know, who will appear, to cause harm and sorrow in our lives. I read that PA went through terrible storms on Monday. Hope you are all safe and well.
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Well written. Well said.
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