I often look at my 1919 National No. 3 typewriter; but just as often pass on taking it down from the shelf and typing with it. It is 101 years of age and does not inspire me the way other typewriters do… yet I find that when I sit at its keys and tap out some words I become amused at the results. One should never over look the value of cheap thrills…
Each moment one can look and see things to be grateful for. Other people, pets and all things beautiful in this world. Life can remind us its many blessings and just taking in the moments to reflect them shows the value of everything.
It seemed like such a little thing… a elderly man came through the check-out line and seemed unsure of where to go… I pointed out a newly opened lane and let him go in front of me. I could of said: “end of the line is…” I decided to be patient and kind… For some reason I have been smiling and feeling good ever since that moment.
It is a great irony that the best way to protect and defend America is to practice social distancing. To reduce illness and persevere the good health and well being of others is to have faith that short-term hardship will extend the life and well being of many. For everyone shut in… out of work or overworked: “Thank you”.
As I ride my bike the things I notice and reflect on; differ from those I experience in a car.
I was thinking about a housefly… which brought images of the Wizard of OZ (but that house fell). That lead to the image of a butterfly; then just butter… but butter that flies. Just letting thoughts flow and link from one to another is a pleasant way to pass time. Much better than thinking why the mood of elections to come; seek positive results by the use of negative… But then I imagine “when pigs fly” and that elephant with the big ears… I look up and know there are better views to seek.
Entering my 64th year, I found I need to decide if 2020 would be a year to view as life left to fill-up…. or life just left to fill. I find myself thinking to overflowing my cup… as long as I look at things with 2020 insight.
Years ago at a bowling alley a man was bragging about how well he knew the owner of the lanes; in fact he was was using the owner’s ball. He then picked up the generic house ball that everyone at the lane had access to. It is good to see things as they are…
I like to think I will always take the “high ground” but in truth I do not. I look back and celebrate the times and moments I did not “counter-punch” when other’s sought to provoke me. I look back with a certain sadness when I took the “low path”. It is a choice…
The longer I exist on this planet the more I become aware that “what is unthinkable today” can become thinkable. Who would have thought putting little wheels on suitcases would be worthwhile?
There are things that are “thinkable”… we can be warned over and over about the dangers of “smoking” yet people try it and get hooked everyday. Perhaps it’s just part of being human.
I typed on a 111 year old typewriter; knowing it would be a slow and frustrating process but I did it anyway. It helps me reflect when I make that that extra effort:
1901 was when this Underwood #5 was made. It looks great. It types… and is fun to type on. What else does anyone need!
