ONE WAY TICKET

Whilst waiting patiently in a supermarket queue I couldn't help noticing there were three heavily stacked trollies in line for the checkout.  I clutched my small basket grateful I didn't have to pay that amount.   I remembered the absolute drivel proceeding from a well paid politician on the television.    Excusing his youth, and the fact that he obviously didn't know the meaning of deprivation or poverty, I listened as he cheerfully promoted five fruit and vegetables a day as the suggested healthy eating plan.   Yes minister just supply the funds.

Old enough to remember rationing during the war,  I considered the very best option was to reach for the off button, which I find myself resorting to daily.    Its either that or shouting at the television set.    The pure hypocrisy of the latest bunch of dictators is enough to send my blood pressure sky high.

My generation could survive shortages, that's if we don't starve to death on the state pension.  But amazingly healthy eating is very expensive.   The cheapest food on the supermarket shelves could well be described as junk food, biscuits, sweets and crisps to curb the appetites of hungry children.   Cheap fruit is tasteless.   Rather like pet food and the hallowed kibble versus wet food debate.   Place a fillet steak in the dog bowl, alongside a bowl of wet dog food, and in third place,  the kibble.    The dog goes for the fillet steak.   FACT.   Wet food second, and then suggests you kindly wrap something around the kibble if you want it to eat that stuff.   Remind them this is excellent quality, perfectly balanced.   Oh yeah - any more of that steak.

The queue moved forward.   I was now held captive by the tempting chocolate display.   The hurried piece of toast before leaving home had not been a good idea.    I was hungry, really hungry.
My struggle with temptation was duly noted by a woman standing nearby.   "Go on" she coaxed,
"might as well have what you want"    She had probably realised I was a senior, and on the way out.

ONE WAY TICKET

She smiled, the ticket's just one way,

so have it all, live for today.

You will not get a second try,

so grab it all, before you die.

This one way ticket I don't buy,

my soul has heard the angels cry.

Visions of a perfect place,

glimpsed, far beyond the human race.

Working till each day was done,

wealth and fame, I wanted none.

But there was love, and Lord I knew,

I was so blessed with gifts from You.

Content to know your precious peace,

saving grace and swift release.

Journeying the road ahead,

by the Shepherd gently led.

Loving as He said we should,

sharing for the common good.

Caring for each living thing,

we play our part, our gifts we bring.

A final heartbeat and I'm free,

soaring to my destiny.

Transformed at last I understand,

His master plan and Mighty Hand,

that led me to the promised land.

T.Hills

2003