Rusty's Armory

Reflections in the Morning Rain: Navigating Life’s Currents

Posted on September 16, 2023

The rains persist this Rosh Hashanah morning as I enter the kitchen for my routine of morning coffee, insulin shots, and pills. Snooks surprises me by taking on the Shabbat dishes today. Before my coffee, I have a can of grapefruit soda, a small indulgence from my great nephew and niece.

Afterward, I retreat to my studio, choosing to read about the latest events. I deliberately skip over numerous stories of political misconduct and grandstanding. Life has taught me not to easily trust those who seek to ‘lead’ me. Whenever I ponder what they lead me into, it seems to translate into something less than what I already possess. I’ve relinquished my desire to carry political torches.

There’s little else of significance. Athletes with poor manners, celebrities with questionable ethics, and religious leaders swayed by the wealth they’ve amassed. I gave up TV years ago, and now I contemplate relinquishing internet news as well. I’m tired of voting against someone rather than finding genuine hope and enthusiastically supporting a worthy cause. It takes a mere five years to disillusion an idealist into a self-serving politician.

Today, I reflect on how I’ll shape my life beyond the reach of those who govern supposedly for my well-being. I’ve allowed myself to become ensnared, depending on them for medical care and the ability to travel. This realization isn’t comforting.

So, I press forward thoughtfully, standing in line for what I need. I once believed I was free, only to realize I had become a pawn. Yet, I hold on to the belief that there’s something greater.

Good morning.