The End and the Beginning

Today our local newspaper chronicled the history of believers who predict an apocolypse. It is true that we are in a time of increased seismic activity, and weather disasters are becoming commonplace. On tonight's news, they showed aerial photos from Mississippi where people are literally building islands to protect their homes. Nevertheless, hearing that some have quit jobs and spent irresponsibly makes me wonder what happened to make some of us abandon reason. I believe wholeheartedly in life's happenings as metaphor. I also espouse respect for the beliefs of others as long as they do not impinge or exploit. Is there plenty to worry about these days? Absolutely. Still, the light revealing six shades of green on lush trees is enough to make me pause and catch my breath. I have strong legs and good eyes. My dahlias, tulips, pansies, and bleeding hearts are in bloom--and the color variations are complicated and beautiful. On Facebook, a number of comments have been posted--songs for the end of the world--Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, "Let it Be" by the Beatles. Tonight we prepared fresh greens with lemon and olive oil, turnips from the farmer's market with a light dill sauce and a Pinot Noir. I can't imagine anything better as we sat on the porch, watching the waning light through lacy leaves. I remember a poem by Linda Pastan, "The Happiest Day"..."if only someone could have stopped the camera then/and ask me: are you happy?/perhaps I would have noticed/how the morning shone in the reflected/color of lilac..." At the end of my life, I hope to remember these moments--looking at your still handsome face, muted by the encroaching darkness, the small light on the wine glasses, a nod of purple hyacinth in the untended garden. This has to be enough.