About a week ago I received a card indicating I had upcoming jury duty. I was due to report at a time that was not a good one for me. I looked on the card to see how I could postpone the service. There was a website to visit. (a pause here to comment that I do not know how people who do not use the internet are capable of functioning in a world that assumes that all can and do).
I went to the site and saw that there were several reasons that would allow a postponement. One startled me.
The good news is that it was easy to get my jury duty postponed. One might think it is also good news that I could be, if I so desired, be disqualified for life from serving--at least in Massachusetts. The reason for disqualification: if you are over three score and ten, you can opt out.
So, that could be construed as good news.
The bad news is the implicit assumption that we post three score and ten, might not have the faculties necessary to deliberate meaningfully. My initial reaction to the news that I could forever postpone jury duty was mixed. I do not like the notion that I should graze on the back pasture to wait for my eventual demise. I feel pretty vibrant and with it. Read.write, think rationally-or so it seems to me. The idea that after a certain age we are less able to participate in the activities of the living is uncomfortable.
When I have to do my taxes, maybe I can trot out my age to avoid doing so. Probably not.
On another note, thanks to those who read the serial mystery I've been posting. I appreciate the feedback I've received. I've sent the novel out to agents and we will see if there are any bites. I've titled it, Statue of Limitations. (for those who read it, you know that the first word is not a typo). Any feedback on the title is welcome. Unless, that is, if you are over three score and ten. (that last sentence is a joke).
