117th Steet

Mama says, "Trust me, it's easier to get to the Mall if you cut through this parking lot then cross 117th street."

It sounds so impossible. I haven't even heard of 117th street. It connotes chaos because it sounds like Divisoria's 168.

So I say, "Oh, I dunno Ma. Maybe I'll try that when I'm not in a hurry and when I'm wearing the right shoes."

But she insists and even walks me part of the way but then she has to leave.

"Remember, 117th street!"

Mama is right, who would've thought. Never in my wildest dreams did I think a street like this would exist in Ortigas. Floating neon signs, midgets, purple chickens, book shops and the smell of caramel in the air.

I see the Mall but linger on 117th street.