October 20 - Ostrich Forecast

Change in the weather.

"Weekly Forecast" crows the rusty weathercock, atop the iron cupola.

So often, the sense in the weather is inscrutable, but this week it's scrutable as can be. The leaves are changing, the light is changing, the temperature is changing. It's a week for change. And change is a complex burrito. Parts of the brain crave variety, while other parts have finally made progress with the puzzle called yesterday, and would be roundly grateful if today were identical. On top of which, there's the vexing fact that change won't promise to be good. I drew up a contract years ago, stipulating that each new day shall be better than the last, and the universe steadfastly refuses to sign it.

If the colleges had kept their philosophy departments, we'd have someone to guide us through uncertain times. As it is, we have the squirrels, and by their example we'll face change with a mood of general panic, disorganized preparation, frequent chittering, and grudging acceptance.