I have never liked books where animals speak. Don't ask me why, I don't know why. But recently my daughter, Heather, told me how much she and the children had been enjoying The Wind in the Willows. She mentioned how Toad reminded her of someone . . . Maybe I should try reading it again, I thought.
I was further encouraged when I realised I could download it for free on to my Kindle.
This afternoon I went into central London to buy a map for the Mission Partners notice board at church. The map shop has a small café at the back and since I hadn't had my daily cup of coffee, I sat down.
I was slightly annoyed that at the central table in this small space, four people were having a business meeting. The man had a loud voice as he made his presentation. Even so, I couldn't make out what their line of business was. Even more annoying.
If I am having a relaxing cup of coffee I don't want other people's work life intruding. But when I was working, I'd have loved to have meetings in coffee bars.
Trying to ignore them, I got out my Kindle and decided to make a start on The Wind in the Willows. I got as far as page 4 when I read,' After all, the best part of a holiday (being retired) is perhaps not so much to be resting yourself, as to see all the other fellows busy working.'
As I said, there is always another way of looking at a situation.
