reuben hall. | ||
| ?decisions | ||
 | Standing here on the rocks between the ocean and a grand cliff, I can't help but wonder why I am here now or how I came to be in this position. There are people all around me, on the shore and in the water. Some people look like they are having fun and they encourage me to come play with them. Other people give me grave looks and warn me that the water is cold as they quickly clamber over the rocks and back to shelter. One person who is on the shore urges me to go in even though he is fully dressed and has no intention of going in himself. I am in my shorts and wrap my arms around myself to keep warm. I don't know why it is so hard to make a step into the water. I have swam many times and enjoyed it. This time is different-- I am terrified of both the water and the shore. I feel stupid as I continue to stand motionless on the edge of coming and going. Someone calls my name and as I twist my body, I lose my balance and I am forced to jump in. A feeling of relief comes over me as I hit the water and the pumpkin... well, you figure it out. Reuben Hall (c) 1999 |