Doris wasn’t sure about this; her neighbour thought it was wonderful.
The yoga instructor was saying. “Let all of your thoughts just melt away, leaving an empty place to create a tranquil lake. See how each wave washes over the tiny pebbles, glistening in the warm sunshine.”
Doris concentrated really hard. Yes, she could see it; a beautiful spot.
Someone coughed and she wondered who it was. No, you mustn’t let yourself get distracted. She wriggled on her mat.
Concentrate now, watch the lapping of the waves as they roll up the beach. I think I’ll add a couple of palm trees. Am I allowed to do that? Of course I can. This is my place; my special place where I can… palm trees, dam! I didn’t tell Colin… No, distraction. But Colin doesn’t know about the neighbour’s pruning does he? He’ll be worried about the dog! Oh! For goodness sake; just tell him when you get home. Now, the lake…
For several minutes Doris was by her lake. It was very nice, but at the same time rather boring. She imagined herself making a little garden to spruce the place up a bit. She was now wearing her old gardening clothes. Her jumper was in a pretty sad state. It has several holes and loose bits hanging off. I should fix it. After all, I knitted it in the first place. Do I have the wool in that colour?
She rolled her shoulders. Should she be thinking all this stuff? She didn’t know.
Someone coughed again. I bet it was that old guy who came in blowing his nose.
She moved around and made herself more comfortable. I wonder if Dad’s cold is better.
Should I be thinking all these things? I’m not sure. Nobody knows what I’m thinking do they? So, it doesn’t really matter does it?
“Mrs Weller? A pause, then “Mrs Weller!”
She opened her eyes and looked up.
“Yes. Yes, I was by my lake, it was very comfortable.” She smiled. “I was very happy there.”
“Yes, we know. You were snoring!”