• SirKlingoftheDrains [he/him]@hexbear.net
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    8 months ago

    DECIDE, v.i. To succumb to the preponderance of one set of influences over another set.

    A leaf was riven from a tree,
    “I mean to fall to earth,” said he.

    The west wind, rising, made him veer.
    “Eastward,” said he, “I now shall steer.”

    The east wind rose with greater force.
    Said he: “'Twere wise to change my course.”

    With equal power they contend.
    He said: "My judgment I suspend. "

    Down died the winds; the leaf, elate,
    Cried: “I’ve decided to fall straight.”

    “First thoughts are best?” That’s not the moral;
    Just choose your own and we’ll not quarrel.

    Howe’er your choice may chance to fall,
    You’ll have no hand in it at all. —G.J.

    Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary