Open Writing

It is pitch black outside. The gale-force wind battering the trees and the sound of dustbins rolling down the road persuaded me to stay indoors until the elements had calmed down.

As a lad I looked forwards to the high winds that usually arrived in March. Sometimes those winds were so strong I could lean my thin frame against them, allowing them to carry me to school without my having to use as much energy walking. In those days the weather was predictible. I knew that it would rain in April, that the sun would shine brightly for almost all of the six-week summer holidays, that snow would arrive on time in the winter.

During the long summer days I earned a few shillings by mowing the lawns of the elderly and infirm. It wasn't just the money. I enjoyed the job, and the thought that I was helping people who couldn't help themselves. It gave me a great feeling when I overheard a neighbour say ‘Young Mike’s a good lad. He’d do owt for you, and you can trust him to do a good job.’

“Trust.” Now there’s a word from the past. Thick chains, two bolts and a mortise lock on strong heavy doors, every double-glazed window in the house locked, panic alarms in several rooms...that tells you how much trust there is these days.

I am surrounded by trusted family members who virtually watch my every move to ensure that I am safe. This does not stop some folk trying it on. A while ago, there was a knock on my door. It was a young chap who said he had been passing my home in his van when he noticed that there was a loose slate on my house roof. He said he would repair it for £10. I thanked him and told him I would get a builder to look at it.

My guard was up. The young lad became agitated. He said he couldn't understand why I wanted to employ a builder for such a simple job when he was offering to do it out of the kindness of his heart for just £10.

‘I’ve done this loads of times for old folk,’ he said ‘Just ask my dad.’

I wasn't pleased about being called old. When I looked up the drive I saw a man. He smiled at me and nodded his head. I remained polite but firmly told the lad that I did not need his help.

That's when the lad became angry. But anger turned to shock when my six-foot ex-bouncer son appeared behind me in the doorway. He'd come to see what was going on.

The lad had obviously thought that I was alone in the house. Realising his mistake he hastened up the driveway. He and the man got into the van and drove away at a record speed.

I hate to think what might have happened had I been on my own.

Yes I do understand why the word "trust'' is not used so often these days.