Crumbs From the Corner: Adventures in Woolgathering

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

From the Horse's Mouth



“Your neighbor is the man who needs you”
-Elbert Hubbard

My mother was hanging out the washing yesterday afternoon when her neighbour called out across the field.
"I wouldn't leave that out too long if I were you," said he sagely.
He tramped across the grass and drew closer. Then he explained that he had just observed his trusty horse reverse and turn its tail to the fence- a sure sign to the old fellow's eye that wind and rain were imminent.
Mater quietly noted that the sky was clear but, confident in her long-time neighbour's wisdom and seeing for herself the unusual position of the animal, promised to take heed of the equestrian signal.
Sure enough, before too long down came the torrents, a mighty gale rose, and both man and beast were proved correct. Mater, fortunately, had been watching from her window and had taken in the clothing moments before the storm blew in.
What a grand world this could be if neighbours everywhere looked out for one another, if advice and trust went hand in hand and if men comprehended the silent language of animals.

5 comments:

Pauline said...

what a great tale (and a great neighbor!)

Pamela Terry and Edward said...

Oh, so very true. We are blessed, mostly, with kind and quite eccentric neighbors. The best kind to have.

Phyllis Hunt McGowan said...

Pauline, He is a good neighbour and anyone would be lucky to have him next door!

Pamela, I agree- kind and eccentric: You can't ask for more. Just somebody to watch for you, and be there when needed.

Barb said...

If only our meteorologists were as accurate as your mater's neighbour and horse (LOL)

Phyllis Hunt McGowan said...

Barb, too true! Those fellows usually get it wrong :) We need to rely on more natural methods, I think!

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