In my counselling practice I would sometimes continue working with people who could not afford my fee. This may have been because their circumstances had changed, and it seemed wrong to me to stop a course of help because of this. A token fee was then charged until their finances looked up again.
Quite a number of years ago it became clear that one person would never be able to pay. I waived the fee ‘until his circumstances changed’. What then happened was that he would bring me the occasional kind present.
I am not a fan of science fiction. He was. So I have a few unread paperbacks in my library. One of these is ‘The Bicentennial Man’, a collection of stories on robotics by Isaac Azimov. The most prolific Azimov has the reputation of an icon of the genre. Another recent cue has prompted me to open this 1978 Panther paperback. It is such prompts that help me select reading from my collection.
The first three tales have held my attention enough to think I might persevere. Watch this space.
Early this afternoon, Jackie drove Becky and me to Knighton Park for another look at the crazy Christmas lights.
This time I focussed more on the gardens. Many exhibits, like the Santa in the box on the right, repeated recorded carols and other Christmas sounds.
Some of the characters, like the snowman with whom Becky is conversing here, were set in motion, and in voice, at the press of a button which visitors were encouraged to administer.
Along the side of the terrace, our daughter was in competition with a smaller young lady in the queue to activate other displays.
The child patiently awaited her turn to set the snowmen going.
Perpetual snow fell on the snowman in this lamp,
and various cribs were surrounded by other symbols of the season.
Father Christmas sheltered a pair of carol singers whose voices were enhanced by a sonorous giant snowman.
The magical scene was well worth the £5 I stuffed into the Charity Collection Box.
This evening we dined at Lal Quilla where we received the usual excellent food and friendly, efficient service, accompanied by Kingfisher beer. We were given excellent quality desk diaries and key rings containing bottle openers.
That’s some Christmas lights display! And interactive, wow!
Thank you, Anne-Marie
There’s nothing like the sight of wonder and amazement on a child’s face (even in profile). 🙂
Yes, Johnna. Thank you
Most definitely the season to
getbe jolly!Thank you, Bruce
What a great display!
Thank you, Pauline
An amazing place – just think of how many hours it took to set this display up. Bartering in trade, a great concept and your professional help for the person will never be forgotten. Happy New Years Derrick and Jackie!
Thank you, Mary. And to you
I know how you feel about sci-fi. I never liked it at all but then I found that Asimov was writing not about some future world but more parables about the now world. I think!.
Thanks, John. I will persevere
Soon the decorations will be packed away until next year. It was nice to sneak another peek. Thanks, Derrick!
Thank you, Jill
Bah, humbug! I would have given them the money for charity but also a note to pledge double the money if they stop the nonsense.
Thank you, Mary. I wondered what you’d say
Nice in so many ways, Derrick.
Thank you Ann
Someone certainly took quite a bit of time to create that presentation. Thank you for allowing us to experience it with you.
Thank you, Jarrod
How very kind of you Derrick, waivering your fee for those people in need. I applaud you, not many people would do this.
Thanks, June
Hopefully, they will get an extension on the Twelfth Night rule!
That would be good. Thanks, John
I enjoyed this trip through such a wonderful place with decorations, lights, toys and beautiful expressions on children’s faces. I am blessed with the photograph of the patient little girl. Just imagine how someday Poppy will come and see this marvelous display. ♡
Thank you, Robin. We did imagine Poppy taking that little girl’s place
By the way, my Dad was a nuclear engineer who worked at NASA, who respected Isaac Asimov’s scientific knowledge and creative spirit. He liked Carl Sagan but felt he was meant to be in television since he was a “showman.” I don’t like science fiction but I admire good writing. 🙂
Thank you, Robin
Yeah! You’re right. The crazy Christmas lights are unique. And soon will disappear 🙁
Thank you, Monica. But back next year, when Poppy will be big enough to appreciate them.
I know she will. She is gorgeous, Derrick <3
You’re very kind to waive the fee for those in need Derrick. Their appreciation for your kindness? Priceless. <3
The Christmas decorations look fantastic!
Thank you, Persia. Yes
Amazing how much effort must go in to creating the Christmas scenes! Great photos!
Thank you, Rob