It’s funny to think back the times I wished for something and when I got my wish it was not what I had in mind. My earliest recollection of wishful thinking occurred in high school. I was infatuated with a young man: the long-haired, rough and tumble sort that I viewed as both a potential boyfriend and a challenge. The challenge was his outward appearance mesmerized the local female population therefore I had my work cut out if I wanted to stand out among the crowd.

As ‘luck’ would have it, I got my wish but it wasn’t long before I regretted having spent so much mental energy on my goal. Turned out the lad was arrogant and selfish: but worse, his escapades were played out for all to see, which made me look like a fool.

Another wish of mine was to live in a grand southern style home. I clearly imagined a long winding path making its way around a circular pond before ending at the front lawn. I’m not certain if my wish wasn’t more of an omen. I got the home, though substantially paired down to a suitable size. However, the path/pond wish definitely went awry. The house sits at the end of a paved cul-de-sac. But hey, I got what I wished for: ducks have mistaken the asphalt circle for water. I’m not lying’...

To this day, I continue to wish for “stuff.” The SgtMaj. refuses to acknowledge my elbow poking in his side as I flip through the pages of a catalog (Kevin’s and Ugly Dog are two of my favorites). “Look at that awesome $200 scarf with the quail on it,” I’d say to the side of his face in my most convincing tone. “Darlin’, a sportswoman never has enough gear or hunt-themed accessories.” I’m still waiting on that scarf.

I have a wish to retire in one piece (that’s actually a prayer) and own a gundog. One of the most fundamental pleasures of bird hunting is to watch a trained pointing dog hunt and retrieve game. I must admit I’m a bit jealous of the hunter who has taken the time to transform his pup into a showman in the field. Indeed the wish to have such a fine animal would be a gift but I will remain cautious.

Oftentimes we wish for things to happen in public without fully anticipating the consequences. Take for example council meetings. It’s a good idea to have a clear understanding of what goes on in a public forum before attempting to right a wrong or make something happen. It’s sort of like suing somebody: once you commit, you can bet every detail of your private life will be open to scrutiny. Knowing that, I might think twice before complaining about delinquent fees that I keep being hit with...because I don’t pay my bill on time. Or, if I had a beef about my job I’d better be prepared to see every detail typed out in black and white in my local newspaper.

To that end, I’ll continue to make wishes but I’ll keep them in perspective, bearing in mind I just might get what I wish for: such as that gundog turning out to be a plastic Chihuahua on a keychain.