Writing has been in the woodwork for me for a long time and I realised it was about time I shared my thoughts with like minds and those willing to share in my journey. I wrote this fictional piece a few years ago and it has stuck in my mind as being a very important one. With the recent events in the country, this seems a befitting entré.....
In a crowded classroom with little or no ventilation and a black wall for a chalk board, the teacher howls to get across to the unruly students. John is silent in his seat, looking around and observing, always observing. His grades are non-existent, his IQ even more of a mirage but he is happy being the underdog; it is his way of life. James is the superstar, the smart student with excellent grades, the athlete, the teacher’s darling, the truly gifted one. He doesn’t mind being the centre of attraction; it is his way of life.
And so John the fool continues making seemingly stupid decisions that only a fool can make with such precision. He goes on to attend a college that is nowhere on the rankings, squeaks though with a degree in a course that is reserved for those who can do no better. He gets a job in a run-down local office that is only kept afloat by the infinite mercy of the local council. John is happy that his job description is pushing files from table to table; it is his way of life. James the superstar is right on the money as is expected of a smart young man. He goes to an Ivy League university and graduates with honours. He gets a fantastic job with a prestigious firm before he can hand in his final essay. He goes on to become a well respected employee and rises through the ranks with enviable speed. He doesn’t mind being the man of the moment; it is his way of life.
Fast forward twenty five years and both men share something in common. Married with children; older and wiser John the fool has succeeded in sitting his way to the top of the council office while James the superstar begins to round off on an illustrious career. John lives in council quarters while James owns three houses around town. James seems to have it all, a comfortable life, stocks and bonds, trust funds for his children’s education, a fantastic group of friends and family. John may be happy in his own right but for some reason he seems to have dropped off the radar.
James returns after a night of celebration at the office. His farewell party with all his colleagues that have been a huge part of his life for so many years leaves him with mixed feelings. He turns on the television to catch up on the news. That can’t be right! It’s impossible! Alas, John the fool has been nominated as the council candidate for Mayor! How, who, what, when, where?! James watches with keen interest and the unthinkable unfolds before his eyes. The campaign is aired and John the fool speaks about issues James is certain he doesn’t understand. Elections are held and he watches in disbelief as John the fool is sworn into the highest office in the town. After a successful life and career, with only dreams of having a restful retirement, James has a dull feeling in the pit of his stomach that his problems have just begun.
John the fool and James the superstar; how wrong could one be?
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