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I head to the Mission District to pick up long-time sidekick, Matthew.
When I last lived in the city, the Mission had a disgustingly endearing quality about it. It was life with her legs spread wide open. An early morning walk to the coffee shop included a scenic view of drunks lying in gutters and whores trudging home after a long night's work. Sixteenth street was lined with seedy bars, authentic eateries and the best thrift stores in town. A buck at the Picarro could get you a fine cup of java and a window seat to the live-action dramas that played out on 16th Street day after day. The Mission was cheap, sunny, colorful, but best of all, you could find parking anywhere.
Now, I slow my car to 10 mph and sling the door open long enough for Matthew to leap inside. As we circle block after block, I can't help but notice that gritty has been replaced by trendy. It sadens me greatly.We give up and revert to plan B....the beach. |
