On my early mornings, I observe my neighbors’ rituals.

The family living downstairs is comprised of a young mom and dad, and their extremely cute little boy (maybe 2-3 years old). Every morning, dad takes junior out for a spin on his tricycle around the apartment complex before going off to work. Junior squeals with delight and gusto, and dad smiles happily as he shares a scant few moments with his progeny.

My next door neighbor is a young guy, about my age, who either lives with, or sees a lot of, his girlfriend. Every morning, Joe takes his dog downstairs and around the apartment complex before going off to school. The dog runs happily along, and Joe smiles bemusedly as he shares a scant few moments with his beloved pet.

cough cough