On Stealing

(As you will see, this started in Nov. 2011. Here we are in June 2012. Life flies by, doesn't it?)

For me, stealing, like lying, is another of those very natural human tendencies. By this I don't mean a few pens from work or post-it notes. No, I mean proper stealing, things of substantial value like sick days when you're not sick, time on the Internet when you should be working - or someone else's husband or wife.

Watching the news across the last few days, stealing seems to have become an initiation ceremony for being recognised as working class. What a shame that the homes above the shops that were burnt were also destroyed - just for self-centred fun. As a Basildon Boy, I remember when being working class was a badge of honour. Now it seems synonymous with any aspect of loutish behaviour. However, to be fair, the people vandalising, looting and torching premises must be sub-working class. Firstly as they don't work, enjoying the benefits of a benefits-lavish society and secondly, as they are being criticised in TV interviews by true working class people.

Still, I can't talk, having stolen plenty myself. Stole the Crown Jewels once. Yep, on reflection, that was probably the biggest caper. Got them home, took a picture of myself with them (Polaroid of course, digital wasn't invented then), and got them back before they were missed. Just for the buzz. Just to prove I could - really! As my car dealer mates would say "Stand on me, John".

Probably, the most valuable commodity though, is other people's words, or more accurately, their thoughts as conveyed in those words. To me, these are beyond value. Perhaps 'stolen' is a little harsh here? 'Adopted' (and adapted), seems more accurate as the ownership and access to the words still lies with the authors.

I have a friend - Colin, who, knowing me well, as true friends do, got me a book called 'Inner Voyager' as a birthday present some 20 years ago. The book suggested that it was for recording your own philosophical views and inspiration. Of course, Colin was right. This was an ideal gift and it still plays a prominent role in my life today, guiding me and providing inspiration when my mood falters.

I don't use it quite as intended but adapt it to record phrases from life that convey engaging wisdom and precious moments. Phrases and scenes from films, TV programmes, books or conversations - that make me think or more importantly, make me feel. Here are some examples.

"Kind hearts are more than coronets and simple faith, than Norman blood." Any idea what that means? Sounds honourable. I like it for the metre.

"The heart will know what the head will never see." I heard this 20 years ago and never quite remember it properly. I think it is a piece of poetry by Wordsworth but memory fails. Clara, if you ever read this. Please correct me.

And lastly, for this post, "Once the trust goes out of a relationship, it's really no fun lying to them anymore." Norm, out of Cheers.

So whether you see plagiarism as stealing, adopting or just plain enjoying, words bring gifts to us all.