January 14, 2012

During the hot summer days we enjoyed the bright color
of the sunflower. It greeted us as we pulled in the
driveway with its yellow face surrounded by deep green
leaves.

Today the same sunflower provides a perch for birds looking for seeds. It creates a resting place for little piles of snow that contrasts with the dried brown of the dead plant.

Though not as cheerful, it still gives an interesting winter scene.

February 8, 2012

Yesterday I completed a five day journey as a juror on a murder trial. While most people do not want to be called for jury duty, I was happy to serve.

When I discovered that the trial was a murder case, I was overcome with a sense of deep responsibility to render a fair judgment of the evidence that was presented to the jury.

After five days of testimony we were confident that the State proved its charge and we concluded that the defendant was guilty.

But I still feel badly for the young man.