What Evil Lurks

"Excuse me sir. Could you please move over a bit? You're blocking my sun."

"Good one Shadow! You're looking sharp, what brings you here today?"

"A brilliant sunny day, of course, and a need to discuss some important business with you."

"Business? I came out here to take a break from business. The park is beautiful today."

"It is, but, well, we've been noticing some disturbing changes lately. My colleagues are concerned."

"We? I have more than one shadow?"

"Certainly. You block more than sunlight my friend. You have a dedicated team of shadows, all with important roles. A professional cast of characters, excuse the pun."

"Pun?"

"Cast a shadow. Cast of characters. Please try to keep up, I have only 500 words to deliver my message."

"Is that some kind of shadow-twitter rule?"

"No, it's a rule imposed by ..., never mind ..."

"Sorry, I'm a bit preoccupied. Business has been very good. More responsibility every day. If I play this right, a promotion will be mine."

"Exactly. You see, some of your shadows work with concepts that are a bit more abstract than light waves. Things like recognition, attention, and so on. Their workload has been expanding rapidly lately. They can barely keep up."

"So, why aren't they talking to me? Are you the gofer who has to deliver messages?"

"Gofer? I take umbrage at that remark, excuse the ..."

"Stop! I got that one. Umbrage, from the Latin umbra, meaning shade, or shadow."

"Nicely done. Anyway, I've been elected speaker for the group. Being visible gives me an advantage in that regard."

"Ok, I'm listening."

"As I was saying, some of your shadows are growing at an impressive rate. Reaching into all corners of the organization. Unfortunately, many of your business colleagues are not so appreciative of the cool shade that you provide. In fact, some are intent on escaping it."

"Oh, I had no idea. That can't be good."

"Not at all. To restore their share of the 'light', they will attempt to go around you, or take you down, or worse, poke holes in you. Figuratively, of course, but still ..."

"But I'm just working hard. I'm really good at it."

"Maybe so, but we can only tell you what we are seeing and hearing."

"What am I supposed to do? I deserve the promotion."

"Be aware of your shadows. Watch that nothing evil lurks there. Step out of that spotlight once in a while and let others enjoy it. Even better, let it shine through. Transparency is tricky, but it can be mastered."

"I can try that. Thanks for the advice."

"You can learn much from your shadows. They can tell you more about yourself than your own reflection."

"I'll let him know you said that when I shave tomorrow morning."

"I'm sure it will be a scintillating conversation. Oh, and read some Murakami novels. He understands us better than anyone."

"Got it. Hey! Where did that cloud come from?"

"..."