Tales from the Desert

*In the time it takes for the traffic light to change

I contemplate peeling my Minneola orange. I’m feeling quite hungry
after work. Then I dismiss the idea, thinking I would probably only
end up with sticky orange fingers and a half-peeled Minneola
in the one hand, angry motorists hooting at me in the background.
Another 30 seconds pass, and I start rooting around looking for the
Minneola that’s rolled in under the front passenger seat,
expecting the light to change at any minute now.
When I come up for air, orange in hand, it’s still red.

I start peeling the orange, keeping an eagle eye on the traffic light.
I finish peeling it and am feeling quite amazed that I’ve achieved this
sitting at the red light. Surely I won’t have time to eat it too!

This Minneola actually doesn’t taste half-bad. I wonder where
it’s imported from (for future reference).
I inspect the discarded peel to look for the little sticker on it.
Mmm, Turkey. Probably not genetically modified then
(if you’re wondering, yes, the light is still red).

I pop the last orange segment into my mouth, and am licking
my fingers clean when the light changes to green.
Just in time then, I think to myself.

*Hint: One can also compile and send 350 character texts on your
mobile phone, read the newspaper and make new friends with the
motorists in the neighbouring car while waiting for the light to change.