phenomenon that some of us prefer to ignore: the possibility
of an intelligent and responsive universe, acting and
reacting in our interests.
Chance is always powerful. Let your hook be always
cast; in the pool where you least expect it, there will be
a fish.
OVIDIt is my experience that this is the case. I have learned, as
a rule of thumb, never to ask whether you can do
something. Say, instead, that you are doing it. Then fasten
your seat belt. The most remarkable things follow.
“God is efficient,” the actress Julianna McCarthy always
reminds me. I have many times marveled at the sleight of
hand with which the universe delivers its treats.
About six years ago, a play of mine was chosen for a
large staged reading at the Denver Center for the Performing
Arts. I had written the play with my friend Julianna in mind
for the lead. She was my ideal casting, but when I arrived in
Denver, casting was already set. As soon as I met my
leading lady, I had a funny feeling there was a bomb
ticking. I mentioned this to the director but was assured the
actress was a consummate professional. Still, the funny
feeling lingered in my stomach. Sure enough, a week before
we were set to open, our leading lady abruptly resigned—
from my play and from Painting Churches, the play that was