Gary shuffled into the park, reciting, ‘I am a quantum physicist of joy!’ His voice bounced off the oak trees like a rubber chicken. Mrs. Puddles, seated on a bench with a casserole, squinted. ‘You okay, dear?’ she asked, as Gary did a handstand on a bench, shouting, ‘I command the universe to serve me waffles!’ A squirrel paused mid-scurry. Gary grinned, mid-handstand. ‘Positive vibes, Mrs. Puddles!’ she muttered, stabbing her casserole. Gary flopped onto his back, arms spread. ‘The cosmos is my omelet!’ The squirrel darted off. Mrs. Puddles sighed, but a smile tugged her mouth. Next week, she brought a muffin. Gary’s next affirmation? ‘I am a master of… subtlety.’
