For me, the arrival of true autumn weather is always accompanied by a somewhat reflective state of mind. Maybe it's just the sense that another year is coming to a close, but I always do a little philosophical stock-taking this time of year. (Also, there might finally be enough conservative Christians in political power to call Jesus back to Earth from the Plains of Leng, or wherever, so, you know, this could be it.) And I've found there are some things of which I'd like to unburden myself — unanswered questions I can't ask directly, confessions, apologies too long in the offing. I'd like to address them in this venue as a series of open letters, for your edification and my spiritual well-being.

Dear Fortysomething Couple Living in the Apartment Behind My House,

For a while now, I’ve wanted to ask why you always have your arguments outside, on the stairs and in the driveway and alley.

This article appears in Nov 4-10, 2010.