Some people show their true selves when you least expect it. For me, it came when my neighbor filled in my cherished pond while…
Some individuals reveal themselves unexpectedly. I had it when my neighbor filled in my beloved pond while I was abroad, unaware of the violent reaction. I may appear like a peaceful elderly lady, but my plan transformed his life.
I’m 74 and have witnessed neighborhood drama. But nothing prepared me for the mayhem in my backyard.
Agnes has lived in her cozy home for twenty years. It’s my refuge, where I raised three kids and now welcome six grandchildren for summer games and weekend picnics. Someone always stops by to visit and provide delight.
My property’s heart? Old great-grandpa’s beautiful pond. This has been the heart of our family reunions for years.
Sometimes I believe my grandsons enjoy swimming in the pond more than my cookies!
Everything was well until Derek moved in next door five years ago. My pond was his issue from the start.
“Agnes!” he shouted over the fence. “Those nighttime frogs drive me crazy! Can’t you silence them?
I’d laugh and say, “Oh, Derek, they’re singing a bedtime song.” No cost!”
But he was unamused. “And bugs! They breed in your pond!”
I said, “Now, Derek, I keep that pond clean. That yard litter certainly brought those bugs.”
I continued despite his grumbling and stomping. He never got over it, despite my hopes.
I went across state lines to see my cousin for a few days of catching up and card games. I anticipated laughing and relaxation. However, I returned to a heart-stopping scene.
Something felt strange entering my driveway. The normal water glitter was gone. It was replaced with dirt. As I ran from the automobile, my heart sank.
Old Mrs. Carter, my neighbor across the way, ran over. “Oh, Agnes! I’m delighted you returned. I attempted to stop them, but they replied with commands!
Stop who? Which orders? Looking at the muddy spot where my beloved pond was, I inquired.
“A crew arrived yesterday. Mrs. Carter stated they were contracted to empty and fill the pond. “I told them you weren’t home, but they had papers!”
It felt like a heavy strike. Twenty years of memories in one day. And I knew who did it.
My fists tightened as I murmured, “Derek.”
How will you proceed? Mrs. Carter inquired, worried.
My posture improved. Oh, I’ll tell you. That guy believes he can bully an aging lady? “He’ll learn why you don’t mess with Agnes!”
First, I phoned family. My daughter Clara raged. “Mom, this is ridiculous! Police should be called!”
“Hold on, dear,” I replied. “Proof first.”
Sophie, my granddaughter, spoke out. “Grandma! What about the maple tree bird camera? It may have caught something!”
Indeed, that little camera was our saving grace.
We watched the film and saw Derek ordering a team to fill my pond. He looked arrogant, like he’d done something brilliant.
“Got you,” I responded, smiling.
Derek probably figured I’d forget because I’m elderly and live alone. He didn’t realize I had some secrets.
My first step was calling the local environmental agency.
“Hello,” I said respectfully. “I report the destruction of a protected habitat.”
The caller sounded confused. “Protected habitat, ma’am?”
I answered “Oh, yes”. My pond has an unusual fish. I registered it with your office years ago. It was filled in without permission.”
I assure you, environmentalists value rare species.
Within days, they arrived at Derek’s home with a jaw-dropping fine.
“Sir, we’re from the EPA,” an official stated. The unlawful destruction of a protected environment on your neighbor’s land.
Derek became pallid. “What? Habitat protected? Just a pond!”
Dear Mr. Larson, a unique fish pond. We have proof you ordered its demolition without permission.”
This is ridiculous! Derek snaps loudly. “That old lady’s pond was annoying! So I helped the neighborhood!”
“That ‘help’ comes with a $50,000 fine for environmental law violations.”
Derek’s mouth dropped. Fifty grand? You must be joking! The pond was—
Hearing them conversation from my porch made me smile. But I continued.
My grandson Lucas, a smart city lawyer, was my next call.
“Lucas, honey,” I murmured. “How about helping your grandma teach a bully?”
Lucas was glad to assist. Derek was issued property damage and emotional distress papers before blinking.
I could have quit, but I had one more move.
Linda, Derek’s wife, was always nice. I noticed her heading home one night and wanted to speak.
“Evening, Linda,” I said. Have a moment?
She grinned despite fatigue. “Yes, Agnes. What’s up?
I invited her over for coffee and told her about my great-grandpa digging the pond, the kids playing in it, the fish and frogs, and summer nights around it.
Linda went from confused to astonished as I said. “Agnes, I had no idea,” she said. “Derek said the town filled the pond for safety!”
“Well,” I patted her hand. “Now you know the truth.”
The next days were peaceful. Derek’s automobile disappeared, causing neighborhood chatter. Linda reportedly begged Derek to leave after discovering the truth.
Then I heard machinery one morning.
Looking out my window, I almost dropped my cup. My yard has a digging team!
I ran outdoors to find Linda in charge. She smiled at me. “Good morning, Agnes. I hope you don’t mind, but I wanted to fix things.”
Linda hired workers to restore my pond. She opened up as we watched them work.
“Derek’s been caught up in some bad business deals,” she whispered. “This pond mess was him venting his frustrations.”
After the pond was repaired, the environmental authorities dismissed charges. Lucas also got me to abandon the case. Boy has a silver tongue.
Derek fled to another state, tail between his legs. Linda became a frequent visitor. She said that was the least she could do to assist me care the pond.
Linda smiled at me as we watched the sunset from my newly repaired pond.
I never imagined I’d say this, Agnes, but I’m pleased Derek tampered with your pond.
Raised eyebrow. “Oh? That’s why?”
She grinned. Because if he hadn’t, I would never have realized what a great neighbor I had next door.”
Our lemonade cups clinked as we laughed. Who knew a little pond could cause so much turmoil and good?
I’m 74, have a repaired pond, a new companion, and a story to tell at family reunions. Life may surprise you, right?
This shows that you should never underestimate a grudge-holding grandma or a bright lawyer in the family!
