Looking Back
by John R. Greenwood
Looking back, life has been good. I have been more fortunate than most--except for that split second back in 1974 when I stuck my hand in a hungry machine. I have paid closer attention since. I did lose a little bit of my mind in the 1980's, but anyone who has lived through teenage boys is in the same boat. I have never been unemployed for more than a phone call. My wife and I have been holding hands since James Taylor sang his first song at SPAC. I have friends who don't borrow money and a pickup that might be paid off before 2016--the year we elect a female president. I have filed just one claim on my homeowners policy since 1975. The wind was stronger than our awning. The check was for $800--a fortune when your kids are in kindergarten and diapers, and your car's a 1972 Ford Pinto. I have enjoyed swimming in spring fed lakes, country streams, and indoor pools. I have climbed Adirondack mountains, maple trees, and corporate step stools. I can sing when no one's listening and play an instrument in my dreams. I saved a life once. I swerved like the first Earnhardt --the squirrel swerved like the second one. My home is a man-owner but only for a few more decades. I don't take any prescriptions unless my throat is white and my ears are red. I can still run like a ox and I'm as strong as a deer. My mind remains sharp. I don't ever get lost, confused or order 9 cut pizzas. I love my country and the country. I love eating and seconds. I love writing, rambling, and grumbling. If I had it to do over again, I would.
This is awesome, Jon
ReplyDeleteThanks, it was like writing a sleigh ride.
DeleteThat was quite fun....reminds me of John Corbett's song "Good to Go".
ReplyDeleteDiane
Mrs G. loved that show that he used to be in. You know the one I'm thinking about? I had to google the name, sorry. Great song!
DeleteYeah, but here's the question:
ReplyDeleteYou have three trips in the time machine. So what moments in your life would you go back to, right now---and why?
Sunday, I would go back to Sunday. One more by-week for my Redskins and I collected $500 on a Take Five Quick Pick. Yes Sunday it is, I've thought about in great depth. I will save the other two for some future date when the nurses whisper, "He's CTD, let's get coffee." I will return twice.
Delete*Circling The Drain
Thought and emotion provoking post. Good work.
ReplyDeleteWhat a well written appraisal of self. I can tell you are a forward looking positive man. What a pleasure it was to read your post this morning - as I sit here on a sunny day in KY.
ReplyDeletelove it :)
ReplyDelete