by Terrence Aym

Created on: August 22, 2009

For Want of a Nail

No matter where you are in life at the moment-a good place or bad-you probably can trace your current circumstances back to a series of decisions that began with one decision. One choice. That choice later proved to be a pivotal point steering you to where you are right now.

But what of those choices you've made that lead to dire consequences that do not affect you directly? Choices that lead inexorably to a chain of events that culminate in terror, catastrophe or terrible tragedy for unknown others? How can you trace the consequences of your choice in that circumstance? Would you want to if you were able?

After all, being aware that even your most seemingly insignificant decision might lead to the death or destruction of thousands of lives would mire you with indecision. Once you are unable to decide because of the possible consequences you put into motion, you would be unable to effectively act. And if you are unable to act, then you would be unable to effectively live.

So how can you trace the impact of your choices on those you'll never meet-those you'll never know?

Thankfully you cannot. And that is the basis of this story, "For Want of a Nail."

1. A Quiet Evening at Home

Nigel Frum plopped onto his sofa and stared glumly at his television set. Jenny had just called and canceled another date with him. He snatched the remote from the coffee table and unconsciously weighed it in his hand while wondering again if Jenny was seeing someone else.

More out of habit than deliberate thought he tapped the power button on the remote. The programming schedule flashed onto the screen and he halfheartedly scrolled down the menu thinking more about his girlfriend than what was being offered. And then something caught his attention. Could it be? Yes! At nine the 1940s film, "The Tangled Web" was being aired. The psychological murder mystery was one of his favorite old-time movies. Maybe the evening wouldn't be a total washout after all.

The phone rang. Scooping it up, he glanced at the Caller I.D. Albert! He had hoped it was Jenny. Why was Albert calling? "Yes, Albert?"

"Nigel? I wasn't sure you were gonna be home. I thought maybe you had a date or something with Jenny."

Nigel frowned. "I did, but she's sick again."

"Oh."

"So what's up?"

Well a bunch of us are going to see that new comedy tonight-you know the one, it stars what's his name."

Nigel snorted. Albert had always had a poor memory when it came to names of places and things. "Yeah,

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