byVikas

Arthur David Presslaff was sitting on one of the benches like many others that evening – it was chilly but the sun was shining and it felt good.  We noticed pigeons flying around him.  As we crossed the green grass partially covered with yellow and brown leaves, we realized these birds were all over him, he was not only feeding them but talking to them.  First thought/picture that crosses your mind (or atleast my mind) is the bird lady from “Home Alone” in Central Park; image of an old homeless person who doesn’t like to talk to people.

But Arthur was different, he loved talking to people! We were visiting the park for the first time, but the usual’s there knew him and he knew them, by name. That smiling face was unmistakably inviting us to talk to him and so we did.  As it turned out he was not homeless. Arthur is a Bird Whisperer, Collectibles Dealer and Natural Health Consultant (from his business card), a war vetran and a photographer (from our chat).

And now he is not a stranger!