Security Breach

Lightening and thunder surrounded our home last night. Safely tucked into bed we did not notice. It was just rain, nothing more.

Stepping outside in the morning I wondered if something was missing. Our porch looked emptier. Shrugging, I helped our kids into the car.

Pulling out of our driveway I noticed a police officer standing beside a car with a busted window. Shattered glass littered the street. A distraught woman stood next to him with her arms crossed.

Nodding away curiosity I continued driving. The kids were dropped off at their schools and I arrived on time to work. It was a routine Wednesday.

Home again I meet Brett at the door. He works nights and sleeps during the day. Staring across the porch he pointed, “Do you notice something is missing?”

I shrug. “It looks like something is missing but …. Oh, no!” Gasping I point to the eerily empty place.

“Oh, yes!” Brett knelt beside a useless lock. “Someone stole the lawn mower.”

I exhale sharply. “Not again. This is the second time in five years. Crimminy!”

“They couldn't’t wait until winter. I still have a lawn that needs mowed.” Brett tosses the lock.

Instantly my thoughts wandered to my children and I suddenly felt vulnerable. Last night while we were sleeping someone came onto our porch and stole our mower. Lightening and thunder masked any bumps in the night.

Brett filed a police report. They mentioned there have been several reported thefts lately in our area. A patrolman would be sent to cover the area at night. Of course we’ll never get our mower back.

Forget the mower. I want my sense of security back.

It was scary enough when our mower was stolen from our garage before the kids were born. Mowers can be replaced. I want to know that my children are always safe.