Saddle Up

Quantum mechanics tells us that the cosmos is ruled by probabilities. Some things are more probable than others. It’s hard to argue with the premise, even if we would prefer that physical laws never change. Articles of faith – religious and scientific - depend on the notion of probability.

Let’s say, for instance, you need to go to the grocery store. At your disposal are a horse and a split-rail fence. You have a choice, here. Do you choose the horse, or the fence, as a means of transport?

Fences have a lot going for them. First and foremost they require little upkeep. They don’t require food or exercise; they’re sturdy, easy to mount, and no matter how long you sit on them, they never tire. Horses aren’t nearly as practical. Mama told you from childhood about fences – and that belief in their benefits was not to be questioned. In addition, you happen to have it on convincing authority that fences make for good transportation. In fact, volumes have been written to support fence riding: as in, “I saw myself riding a fence over the land of Unbelief and felt compassion for those who only had horses.” Lots of people believe in fences. Lots. Not only that, but since fences are so cost effective (as opposed to horses), you’d have more money to spend on riding gear. Think about how sharp you’d look riding your fence in tack with style.

Oh, sure, there are the doubters – the unbelievers. There have always been those who have mocked fences. There have always been the stiff-necked and hard-hearted. There have always been unbelievers. No amount of effort will persuade the afencist, so it’s best to just keep on riding. Eventually, through the exercise of faith, the fence will take you to the Promised Land – or to the grocery store. It's true, fences don’t have the muscle and the heart – and the capacity – of the horse, but what’s to say that a volcano might not erupt under you and your fence and carry you (maybe a little charred) to the store of your choice. Maybe a tectonic plate will inexplicably slide - ever so gently - and convey you to groceries. Or, perhaps a tornado or a hurricane will blow you and your fence to your desired destination. Who knows? It could happen. That’s the point of probabilities, isn’t it?

So, what’s it going to be, Bucko? What kind of evidence are you waiting for? Where’re you gonna place your faith? It’s your call. Saddle up and have a nice ride. And, oh yeah, we’re out of peanut butter. Grab us a jar while you’re at the store. Right now, I've got to see a man about a horse.

Don Doan