February 10, 2010
Rain is forecast to roll in this afternoon, the heavenly waters bathing the awakening roots of spring.....and filling once again the potholes in my lane! They have become hazardous. Driving the lane feels like skiing a slalom course.

This morning I took on the persona of a chain gang member, shouldering shovel, pick, and rake, I began the the laborious task of 'road repairs'. It seems my lane has fallen outside the umbrella of stimulus dollars. No money in this work. Just pick and shovel and old chain gang tunes recalled from memory. It is work that will never end. The rains will come. New 'soft spots' will develop.

There are other things I do in life that are dull, repetitive, and sap my strength. It's been that way ever since I first entered the berry fields as a 6 year old. There is nothing romantic or uplifting about this toil. It is simply what I find myself doing at times. My inner boss comes on to the stage and says, "Come on, Jon, it's pick and shovel time. Get going!" There isn't even anyone to watch me perform!

I am not lamenting or complaining...just acknowledging and being aware of this part of the reality of my life.