I’ve been sitting on a bench in Sint-Baafsplein, a square in Gent centrum.  I love public places to sit where you don’t have to buy a beer or coffee.

Before me is Sint-Baafs, a cathedral built over a thousand years ago.  On the left is NTGent, a performing arts theatre, its productions naturally presented in Dutch.  No matter … it’s all home to me.

Folks are coming and going in Sint-Baafsplein, many entering the church, some seeking a nearby coffee shop or pub (known here as cafés).  Tourists from across the world mingle with residents from across the world.  Us.

A couple nearby are taking turns doing photos of each other, with Sint-Baafs in the background.  I wave to them.  The woman waves back.  The man smiles and asks me to take their picture.  Of course I will.  More smiles … and then off they go.  I return to sitting.

I live here

I love here

I will die here

In 2053