Are you happy? I said to him. Are you happy? Knock once for yes and twice for no. I always wondered what happy meant, you see I always was a happy chap. In my youth I often played the wee gee board wanted to find things out, make contact, finger on a wine glass, tarot cards, crystal ball. There’s providence in the fall of a sparrow, yes it all makes sense. My card was often falling houses, I have a reading every six months, point the way ahead. Superstitious or not life happens at the turn of a card the roll of a dice. (Knock) One knock, it’s a yes. Are you happy? Are you really happy? It seems so long since we said goodbye, true friends never part they’re always together in spirit. (laughter) That’s it break the ice! I’ve got my name badge on I need no introduction. I’ve been to those affairs where people stare at badges on your lapel. Are you happy? Is anyone ever truly happy? The joys of spring, half forgotten memories of childhood bliss triggered from the adult subconscious by some fleeting event, a boat on a river, stepping stones across a stream, exploring an old forgotten time. The sun shining through the leaves of trees, oak leaves on a tree that’s been there since time immemorial. Things will go on indefinitely or so it seems. Watching children grow up, a world for many of undisturbed wonder. (Children’s laughter) I wonder, I often wonder where happiness comes from? Sometimes you don’t realise you were happy until years afterwards. Time flies like the birds in the trees. Sunrise sunset morning noon and night. Time, happy time sad time bad time immutable time. Do you take sugar in you tea? One of life’s many sweeteners, sometimes life is artificially sweetened, the winning smile the knowing look. Always greet a friend with a smile, a true smile, not like some politician glad handedly pressing the flesh. Autumn turns to winter spring turns to summer. I never did want summer to end. Knock once for yes and twice for no but be sure to respond, life’s aim is to respond, respond and be responsible. Never! I hear you say never! Trample on the flowerbeds! Encourage the weeds! Plant stinging nettles in your heart! But be alive!! Always always be alive!!