“As the Days Fade Away…..” - By Noor Rahim

“As the Days Fade Away…..” – By Noor Rahim

NOOR R. RAHIM As the days fade away; one can only look around for what lies ahead and speculate – be it good or bad. Whatever it be one must keep in mind the age old saying of “Man Proposes; and God Disposes”.

Presently the “sitting outside” on the verandah and watching the “World go around” is all but gone and restricted as such; confining one to being indoors within the walls of the home. However, we of the extreme North have to contend with the God given four seasons and savour the good and the bad as we humanly can – for each season has its characteristics and metamorphoses; and it is for us to contend with, enjoy and make best of it all. Easier said – but does everyone agree? For it is said that “One Man’s Meat is another Man’s poison”.

Back to the landscape; one see’s the bleak and grey skies and feels the cold penetrating ones clothes. The flowers have all but withered and lay forlorn on the ground; but to compensate we do see the myriad and kaleidoscopic change in the colour of the leaves which leaves us with such a warm feeling; and perhaps with ecstasy. But for how long will be dependent on the blowing winds. The downside of this very pleasing sight will be the leaves that have been shed on the ground by the winds to create a labour intensive task for the poor gardener.

The colourful birds that flew, swooped and performed aerobatics have all gone away; and so has the bees that were buzzing around the flowers. All gone away to warmer climes; emulated by the famous “Canadian Snowbirds” on their annual trek. What remains sauntering around the garden are the squirrels with bushy tails foraging and scrounging around; seeking food and other nest building material to shore up their resources for the Winter Season that lies ahead.

As for the neighbours; they are the same as they always were. Just the cursory greeting and nothing more – reeking of the “Hi & Bye” society that is so rampant in this country – be it neighbour or at place of work. Even at large Socials & Dances this trait continues, for the “noise” of the music will never allow you to converse or have a meaningful conversation. What a pity that this should be so; in what is purported to be an advanced and learned Community.

Doesn’t it remind of “back home” when you could step out of your home and indulge in cordial and meaningful conversation with neighbours friends and acquaintances. But one can only guess this happens as life here is in the “fast lane” and the niceties will only remain within the confines of a “Hi & Bye”.

Due to the weather change and impending deterioration of the warm weather and the anticipated onset of winter, one finds the “whirring” noise of the lawn movers have long gone; with the operators confined to their homes. Even the “road-runners” are conspicuous by their absence. So one does venture out into the Big “Shopping Malls” to continue with their “constitutional” walk. The vibrancy, glee and colour have all but gone; and instead it is “dragging the feet”, sullen looks and dark & grey clothing is seen in abundance. Even the shop windows are draped and adorned with lack-lustre colours. It should not be long before Christmas Season dawns on us and then we return to joviality, purpose and colourfulness. Pardon me if I am “politically wrong” in saying “Merry Christmas” instead of “Happy Holidays”. For me it shall remain “Merry Christmas”; for it is said “to each their own; and God for us all”.

Coming from a Tropical Country one is reminded that we lived off one-suitcase, so to say. In other words we only had “summer clothing” to wear throughout the year; but in the extreme North of the Hemisphere we have four suitcases to contend and conform to. One for Summer; one for Fall; one for Winter & one for Spring. Perhaps the vagaries of weather has to do with the mood swings that one has to succumb to. However through this gamut of weather cycles one just has to “be prepared” as propagated by the Scout movements; and adapt oneself to make use of the situation as best as one could. For as long as there is breath in you just inhale the goodness in life or else you shall forever live with a dark pall of gloom hanging over your head. Thereby over- shadowing your gleam, gait and human feelings; to your own detriment.

For as the Days Fade Away; look forward at the brighter side and lead a life in content, in addition to spreading the message of Peace, Goodwill & Love among all beings and bringing cheer to the needy. Which also brings to mind an oft sung ditty to the tune of the famous “Baila” in Sri Lanka – “Kapanglah; Beepanglah: Jolly Kerapanglah; Heta Marunoth Hithata Sapai Adha Jollykaralah” which means “Eat; Drink and Be Merry with no regrets if you die tomorrow”.

As the Days Fade Away…..- By Noor Rahim