August 2010
The chestnuts dropped early this year scattered like tiny mines beneath the trees catching kids walking barefoot unawares. Retribution was swift; hundreds of shells were smashed open and the treasures inside threaded on string - war trophies for display and final destruction in an orgy of ‘Conkers’.
Summer passed, unnoticed, with no obituary; the art of reading nature long forgotten in this pushbutton age that programs time to suit the schedules of industry and Sky TV. Automatons and zombies vie for recognition as archetype of this Brave New World where technology rules and men obey.
‘Computer Error’ hides a multitude of sins though computers are only as fallible as their data clerks – are the seasons out of sync because of human error? Some would say so and I won’t argue overmuch; a sin of omission is still a sin no matter what excuse is offered nor what tribunals may say in expiation.
Mary died last week and I didn’t know until her hearse paused outside my door allowing a silent, last farewell – I had no tears, just shock and deep regret for all the wasted years since last we talked of silly things like bus schedules and dogs’ mess in her garden. Her garden where white carnations thrived on the love she shared so freely.
They went with her to the crematorium and mourned when I could not. I lost that right through indifference.
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