WATCHING THE RAIN AND LEAVES

It was alright, the hospital thing. They looked after me really well.

That done, and with all my hospital musings on how we answer the question ‘how are you?’, I’ve been thinking today about the rain and the leaves.

My great grandfather lived his last few weeks in a big house by the park. His window (it became my own window with time) faced the leafy green trees and the fluttering birds, over the road.

I used to perch on that windowsill from time-to-time. I was small enough. I’d count the cars and make words out of registration plates, and I’d watch people as they strolled across the green grass or up the concrete path to the woods or the adventure playground.

Adventure playground. That’s a thought for another day.

Anyway, I really think I like the idea of a peaceful life. There must have been something so calm and beautiful about my great grandfather watching the autumn leaves flutter and shine. I’d like that. I’d like a window to sit by and watch the rain wash down the road. I’d like to see those leaves dance their way along by the gutter as the world sweeps by.

I didn’t fight in a war. Maybe he was a different kind of person. I’m a bit of a dreamer really; I haven’t earned that life I’m talking about. And I’m not at the end of mine; I just think it would a nice way to be - to not have to worry about everything all the time, and just be able to sit and watch in quiet peace.

My eyes have got that coloured fringe from too much screen time tonight. I need to stop. I need leaves and rain I guess.