Editorial - May 18, 2011

Entanglement in my utopia

By Andy Comber

Awakening early Monday morning, I was a little hesitant to look out the window. All I could hear was rain.

I started to think I was going to need to launch the canoe to get my ride. But then it hit me – a sense of guilt.

How could I complain? What about those poor folks in Manitoba. They are breaking some river dykes, deliberately flooding farmlands in a desperate attempt to prevent even more damaging floods. To the south, the flooding is plaguing residents along the Mississippi.

That is the thing with the news. Locally, we believe there is plenty to complain and be upset about – the weather, the economy, and don’t even get me started on the price of gas! Then we look further beyond our region, across the province, nation and around the world. A lot of the news is darn right depressing – floods, earthquakes and wars.

By comparison, guilt often nudges me into thinking ‘we have it pretty good.’ Perhaps you feel the same way. Guilty, yes. But I also feel I have been cheated into contentment by this “worse news.”

If there was not so much grief elsewhere, I could be taking issue with turmoil close at hand. I’m talking about entanglement, invaders, and the battle for territory. And it’s not Libya. It’s right where I live. And that is the point I am trying to make. I am talking about right in my own backyard. There’s even a flood. But I have to be thankful – right? I mean, it’s not Manitoba.

Given a more tranquil outside world, I could have complained about the rate my grass was growing after the April showers. Even leaving the mower outside – at threat to the grass in plain view – did nothing.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the spring and the opportunity and to work outside – “to garden.” But just look at this spring. I know, I know – it’s not Manitoba.

Normally, by this time, I am preparing the garden for the ritual planting of annuals and the bold addition of some perennials. Then came the rain – again.

This past Saturday, I did make the trip to the plant exchange and sale in Colchester. There is always folks there that can tell you all about the plants – their cool names and characteristics. I’m sometimes fortunate enough to remember the name when I plant the specimens, and whether the location is right for them. (Did they say shade for this one?) But in truth, I have usually forgotten all the important details before I pull into my driveway.

To help, I have established my own classification of plants – trees, bushes, vines, things that flower, and “other”. Of course there are weeds. But for some reason I am more familiar of them and can name quite a few, like dandelion and thistle. I have no trouble growing those.

When summer does finally get here, I will miss the field of soybeans that was once my neighbour – that field, presently swamp like, will soon be invaded by noxious weeds.

Yes, entanglement, invaders and even floods – but it’s no disaster. In spite of everything, I have a virtually utopia and paradise compared to so many others. I even think the sun will come out today.