(dis)illusion

People change.

They say it all the time, don't they? (the proverbial "they," the unwashed plebes, the cliched masses) Or is it that people can't change? (which is what my mother always told me)

I wonder if time isn't stronger than all other forces, in the end, when I realize the hairpin turns life can take before you even realize you've spun the wheel. Everything begins neutral and even, but some people are left caring more—or drastically less. Suddenly Disneyworld can surprise you after years of cynicism... A grudge grows easier to give up... You've taught yourself to like olives though you abhorred them as a child... Or your dearest friendships fade to labored acquaintance.

Who knows how or when it happens, that slap in the face.