On the wall next to my desk there’s a framed picture that I often ponder upon. It depicts a man in a three-way death struggle with a giant snake and a tiger. Adding to the drama and excitement, the struggle is taking place on train tracks and in the background an oncoming locomotive is closing the distance. I’m not entirely sure why, but that picture has always encouraged me when hope seems thin and the future grim. I always think, “Boy, that guy could use a drink,” but also, “These current struggles, though they seem the size and ferocity of boa constrictors and tigers, are mere trifles because soon enough the iron wheels of The Locomotive of Certain Doom will roll over us all. So have a drink and cheer up!”
