Should I tell Gladys that there is a gecko crawling on her white spotless tile floor? I have been observing it for about 20 minutes on the lanai in her fastidious home in Florida.

I know it will send the entire household into a state of alarm and confusion never seen before in the Western world. The reptile's movements are very jerky and it only moves a few centimeters even when it does move. It seems to be basking in the abundant Florida sunshine and is completely unaware of any dangers to its being. Its very life was in deep jeopardy.

I am positive that if I bring attention to the harmless creature, the brooms and mops will emerge and goodbye Mr. Gecko. So I will just sit and watch and say nothing. Why should I impose the death sentence on this creature that God made and at present is disturbing no one?

I have witnessed the O.J. trial and the Laci Peterson trial and about a 100 or so reconstituted trials on Court TV. I have seen Jeffrey Dahmler sentenced to a life sentence without parole.

That two-inch lizard on the floor is bothering not a soul. Should I sentence him to death without a fair trial? Should I read him his Miranda rights and hire a fast-talking attorney?

No, I will just sit and watch him or her and not break up the sad conversation. My wife, Lorraine, and I have flown to Florida (Boynton Beach) to pay a Shiva call for a great person. It is for Lorraine's beloved cousin, Sammy.

Sammy and Gladys were a kind and caring couple. Even though they had no children of their own, they were adored and loved by every child in the family. Sam was one of the best joke and story tellers I have ever met. Even now, I can still hear him telling one of his famous punch lines.

As we spoke, I continued to watch Mr. Gecko moving on the floor. My eyes slowly moved up to the outside screen and there it was, a live gecko!

I was watching a clear silhouette on the alabaster tile floor. The live gecko was perched upside down three feet above the floor on the screen outside the porch. I had been watching his shadow on the pure, clear white porcelain tiles. I was elated! Nothing would have to be done! Don't always believe what you are positive is true.

Nature plays some sad tricks and also some happy ones.