One Fine Florida Day

 I thought I would get some work done on the dock (yeah, this is my job). There’s a nice picnic table in the center, the wood sun faded and slightly chipping. There’s an empty clay citronella candle pot to use as an ashtray: I am not fond of throwing butts into the wild (it’s the least I can do for society). And I can’t fathom writing without indulging. There’s a nice breeze, and it’s causing the ashes to swirl. 

The mangroves have gotten tall; I only know this because the neighbors said you used to be able to see all the way to beachside. I haven’t lived here as long as them, obviously. Our trailer park borders the Halifax River, which is producing healthy mangroves yet loads of bacteria. So I’ve heard. But many people boat and fish in these waters; it’s quite alright as long you don’t submerge or drink it. 

I got in the water once, but I was under the influence — yet I live to tell the tale (Alcohol must be a good disinfectant). I was trying to cool off on a hot day. I sobered up once I realized I could not tread water, and a nice man pulled me onto his canoe. Alcoholics always need to be rescued. It’s really a drag.

I’ve never seen the sky so cloudless and pale, like the wind has blown all the clouds away and the sun has bleached out the color. I only see small clumps in the west, lending slight embellishment to the atmosphere. As above so below? Everyone must be drained from this heat; I was soaked just an hour ago. The blessing outside is the breeze; it’s the perk of living on the water. But if you enjoy it without protection you’re going to get burned, it’s just a fact, especially if the sun is reflecting off the water. Though I’m praying for good tan.

I’m also praying for natures inspiration.

The water looks army green (is that normal?). I can’t tell if the wind is blowing it north or if the ripples just give it that appearance. I remember the currents always carrying my line south. Whatever it is doing is very serene -  who knows what’s going on underneath. The tide is slightly elevated. I suppose it could change. I could be blessed to see a manatee, if theyre in season, or actually confirm the presence of bull sharks. It’s just what people say, and I have no reason to disagree; anything could be in this water. Maybe one day I’ll be brave enough to go fishing again. And Hopefully never stupid enough to go swimming again. 

The Asplundh people cut down our bamboo a week ago. I think it was interfering with the power lines, as half our house lost electricity. I think the problem is resolved at the loss of several good stalks. It’s about as high as a palm tree. It’s quite thick and it bends with the wind. It adds character to the trailer. John loves the beauty of it and he will protect it at all costs. A couple new stalks are already forming.

As long as I’ve been writing the sky has not changed. I hear the distant roar of an aircraft. Must be nice flying for them. Must be good to be alive in this tropical state, on this fine day.