The absurd man in 1024x768

The challenges in life are all imagined, but the consequences ever real. It is not a lesson I have forgotten, but it is a lesson I enjoy relearning. It has been said that the opposite of love is not hate, but apathy. If that is true, then nature has created a desire for that which it never possessed.

Four men traveled the greater part of central Iowa locating and playing nine disc golf courses over two and a half days. Trees were notched, young childern's ears bled, and bogey's were begotten in a gestation period once described by Lovecraft. But yes, all four of us returned. We even appeared no worse for the wear - though thorough examinations might have proven the beginning of future coronary embolisms. Something, however, was missing.

If you had questioned us before we left, I'm sure we would have been willing to admit possession of that thing now lost. Just because you never wear that horrid Christmas sweater doesn't mean you refuse to acknowledge ownership. In fact owning it but not wearing it is as much a definition of the self as using it. Sure, it's dusty, but it's your dust. Eventually, though, you pick it up during a random fit of change and nonchalantly toss it into the garbage. Maybe if you're on the extreme of sentimentality you'll consider it's value. The moment will pass however and, in the end, pragmatism will win out.

But, as with anything that crosses your path during this short life, when it bids adieu you can't help but wonder.

What if...someday.