LeVar Burton is in My Bathroom.

His picture, I mean. It's a weird place for a picture of a person to be, let alone a photograph of a famous person. And it is definitely a strange place for a picture of a famous person who once starred in a childrens show. Nonetheless, it's where he is.

It became his home when I first moved in and my friend didn't know where to place the picture, so she situated him high on the shelf, next to the towels. Don't worry, it's warm there. He's comfortable.

It stayed his home when I found myself speaking to him as I entered the room, and asking how he's been. You see, I live by myself. No, correction...I live with LeVar Burton('s picture), a stuffed Finding Nemo, a plush orange monster with green spots, and musical instruments that all have names which I will not share because a person deserves some mystery their life.

LeVar was my mystery for a long time. Until now. No one needed to know that I spoke to a man who wasn't actually there. At first talking to him was odd, telling a picture about my day. Asking if the steam was bothering him. Then talking to him became comfortable, telling him about my coworkers, asking what he thought of my outfit chocie. And now? Now, his presence feels necessary. My tears flow freely in front of him without judgement. Frustration at myself outpours and still he stays. He is not brought down or annoyed by it. He is a comfort when no one else is around, and often there is no else around.

So, here's to LeVar Burton who listens when I speak, never leaves, and smiles down on me from high on the shelf.