Brett Zimmerman On The Vicissitudes of Life

“I’ve had a lot of good experiences in life and plenty of bad ones. I’ve found myself in weird situations and have even put myself in a few. That’s how life’s turns.”

Known for its thriving LGBTQ community, popular clubs, and restaurants, San Diego’s Hillcrest district is abuzz with pedestrian activity throughout the day and night. Along University Avenue, the area’s main arterial, is a popular 24-hour cafe known as Lestat’s. Replete with an Egyptian vibe and what seems like an endless sea of tables for seating, it a place of community for those seeking a home away from home ( a no sleeping rule, however, is strictly enforced).

On a warm Saturday evening in October, I’ve settled in there with my laptop and phone for an all-nighter of journalistic writing. Wave upon wave of patrons — students, academics, homeless, even the occasional crossdresser — make their way through the doors to enjoy yummy light bites and dessert items. Seeing that the line for food is quickly growing, I make my way to the front register to grab a bag of chips along with an oatmeal raisin cookie for the evening.

A man with a wiry frame and shaven head is taking orders from behind the counter. Over the course of the evening, I observe him juggling what seems to be an endless set of balls — taking orders, crafting espresso drinks, making sandwiches…