Philosophical Friday

Is there a particular time of day when errant thoughts wander into your head and you start remembering and wondering and realizing there are lots and lots of things in this old world that you’ve only glimpsed? Or perhaps that you’ve not glimpsed at all but puzzled over?

When the sun slips toward the western horizon and trees and houses become dark silhouettes against the sky, unbidden, thoughts which have lurked around the edges of my mind during daylight hours move in and take up residence. The trick is weeding out the undesirable ones and welcoming those that bring joy or peace.

Old barns and old houses hold a particular fascination for me. I can weave imaginary story after story around them. And, when I see an old barn, I mean a really old one, that is falling down, I think it is more shame to its owner. If the roof is whole and has been repaired or replaced through the years, the rest of the structure is apt to remain pretty much as it was built and let me tell you, today’s barns have none of the personality of the old ones. But, with holes in the roof to let in the snow and rain and give the wind a good toe hold, pretty soon the entire barn is in sad shape.

Isn’t that kind of true with people? As long as we keep our minds and spirits active and healthy, the rest of us does pretty well but if holes appear, as in doubts or extreme fears or emotional damage, our bodies start going downhill. These are the lurking thoughts that we don’t want to take up residence as the sun goes down. At least it seems so to this philosopher-grandma.

Another thing about old houses–they seem to contain a certain feeling. Some houses I’ve been in have felt so warm and welcoming, it was like being home. Others had a cold, uneasy feel to them and I could hardly wait to leave. Why? What makes the difference? Could the lives that were lived within those four walls have left some of their emotions behind? Spooky, isn’t it? It’s just one of the many things for which I have no answer but that doesn’t keep me from wondering.

Anyway, I guess I’d better stop right there before philosophical becomes foolish. Do you have any ideas on the subject?