The Bench Facing the Wrong Way
Chapter 1 - A view of the wall
A new park bench faced a blank brick wall instead of the river. Martin, who walked there daily, complained to the council. He collected signatures and took photographs showing the wasted view.
Before sending the petition, he saw a woman sitting on the bench with her eyes closed. He asked whether she wanted it turned around. She said the wall sheltered her from the wind. She was recovering from surgery and could sit there comfortably for longer.
Martin explained the river view. She understood. Neither reason made the other disappear.
He put the petition back in his pocket and asked her which direction the wind usually came from.
