Of myths and moods and attitudes

 According to myth, Sisyphus had his boulder to roll uphill. We have oak leaves to clear from the driveway and what laughingly passes for lawns and gardens on the property. In a good year we even get to clean most of the gutters on the house. The drive is the primary focus of attention so we don't have to spend too much time unclogging wads of wet leaves from the snowblower. Maples and aspens and black cherry trees are considerate enough to drop their leaves within a relatively short period. Oak leaves become more like the proverbial Chinese water torture for about six months of the year.

Today's weather cooperated and, once again, we've cleared most of the leaves from the driveway edges. Pumpkins are now lying near the pear tree. We suspect the deer will find them by Thanksgiving and will enjoy their own feast for a day or three.

preview of coming attractions

Photo by J. Harrington

The Better Half has replace pumpkins along the front stoop with pine and fir branches and red thingys and silver balls. Sometime within the next week we'll hang Christmas lights and the outside will be done for this year. Unless, of course, we find something new that just has to be added to what we have already. A deer statue covered in lights? Probably not, but we're learning to never say never.

We wouldn't want this to get out and be spread around, but, with a few exceptions, such as having our ear protectors/music players fall off our head at one point, and temporarily misplacing one of the pins that holds the back blade on the tractor, we almost had a good time today. That's something we could use more of and will work toward that end for at least the remainder of the holiday season. Something about blah, blah "good will toward men?"

Sisyphus and the Ants

By Jennifer S. Flescher

The story tells us Sisyphus is being punished.

Over and over he has to push that boulder

up and up. The mountain and God glaring.

And you, you have

your avalanche of moods.

Pills the size of stars to nearly quell

cascade and tumult.

And still you step

gravity amplified by incline, each hazard

in the way of the boulder a reminder

it should be easier. There should be

a hot fudge sundae at the top. A long nap in the shade.

The story forgot to tell us, though, Sisyphus thrived.

He learned to guide his wrists

and shoulder girdles safely to protect himself.

And later he worked to safeguard every insect

from here to the crest. Considers this his calling.

Even as the sun and the weight of time bears down.

Your strength is kingly.

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