ON SECURITY

     At the Navy submarine base in Groton, CT, where I teach an evening English class, there’s an increased concern about security these days, which has served to remind me that the search for absolute personal security is a futile endeavor. Of course, it’s important to take precautions against the possible dangers in my life, but it will never be able to save me from every single one of the little and large perils that are part of living a full life. Collapses and crashes and breakdowns are built into life like darkness is built into each day, and no number of defenses and fortifications will fully protect me from all of them. The best I can do is take practical precautions day by day, and then live like I love every minute of life. When disaster comes, I hope I’ll speak to it with audacity, but until then, I’d rather risk it and dance with a few dangers than encircle myself with sentries.