August 27, 2017

PARK   BENCH

A tree, well planks of a tree,

met two other parts of itself

that were separated some 87

years ago. All three were

washed ashore - resting

almost on top of each other -

on a rocky beach covered

with seaweed and brine.

What are the odds of that happening?

“Hey, I thought that was you -

and you too after all these years.

Where have we been all this time?

I’ve often wondered what

happened to the rest of us.”

“Me too!”

“Me too!”

“Oh,” said the bench plank. “I’m sure

I had the most interesting life. I’m sure

I heard the most there is to hear -

about how life has been for so many

people. Park benches hear the best

of stories. I guarantee you that.”

“Nope,” said this solid piece of

dark, dark stained wood. I guarantee

both of you that I have heard the

best of stories. I was part of a bar.”

The third piece of wood remained

very quiet - till finally the other two

pieces demanded to know what it

did with his life.

“I can’t tell you.”

“Why?”

“Well, if I could tell you, I’m sure

you’d both agree I heard the best

of stories - with tears as well.”

“What do you mean, you can’t

tell us anything? That’s a cop out.”

“Well, I guess neither of you are
Catholic, because then you

would have heard of the seal

of confession - confession boxes -

and that they are made of wood.”

© Andy Costello, Reflections  2017