Opus 2014-53: Ode to Old: Just a Walkin’ in the Rain

When I was young and stupid I used to walk in the rain on purpose.

In Southern California we don’t get the kind of rain that much of the country takes for granted.  When we had a real storm come through I used to go out walking.  I would put on my big rubber boots, drape my poncho, don my pith helmet and go stomping through the gutters and puddles of my neighborhood.  I don’t remember worrying about lightening or cars.  I just had a good time.

Young.

Stupid.

Saturday I had a moment of old and stupid.  We have been having a big storm.  I needed to take my daily constitutional and it looked like the clouds had cleared off for a time.  I set out thinking I had plenty of time.  As I reached the most distant part of my walk a few drops began to fall.  The tempo increased gradually until it was a real gully washer.  I thought about stopping under a tree but I am old enough to worry about lightening.  The gutters were soon full but I didn’t have my rubber boots and I am now aware of cars. 

I kept walking.  Soon my hat was soaked through and water was beginning to run down my face.  I could feel it running down my back.  I was not prepared to walk in the rain.

Actually I enjoyed it.  I knew that I had a warm house, a hot shower and dry clothes ahead.  It was not really cold.  I was able to enjoy the moment and thank God that at my age I am still frisky enough to keep on truckin’. 

Today I am no worse for the extra shower and had a chance to be reminded of how good life can be. 

I am glad I was old and stupid for a moment.

homo unius libri