Book Run +1

"Ok, we're going to the library," I said. "We have overdue books to return and the library closes at 5."

"Can I go with you if I ask my mom?" Raheem asked.

"Sure."

Raheem ran home. Shane and I waited.

I expected Raheem's mom to say "no." I met her once in passing. I'm basically a stranger.

Raheem returned a couple minutes later. "She said I can go!"

Really? How does she know I'm qualified? Are there any forms to fill out? Who is your family's primary medical provider? What if dinosaurs attack and there is collateral damage when the military retaliates? 

"Do you know your mom's phone number?"

Raheem rattled it off. No need to panic there.

I wrote my number down. "Take this to your mom in case she needs to contact us."

He ran off again and I scratched my head. Shane cheered.

And that's how I know I'm old. I made it complicated. It was a simple for Raheem: "My friend is going to the library and I'd like to go, too!" He didn't hesitate to ask.

We went when Raheem returned. I felt better when we saw Sherwood outside. He waved. 

We returned half an hour later. There were no ambulances or police reports. There was a piggy-back ride and I played Hank the Cowdog on the way home. Raheem didn't have a library card, but the library had a book exchange for such an occasion. 

I bet we go again after wrestling season ends.