The Ride

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Photo by  Olan L

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Photo by  Olan L. Smith, Missouri State Fair


The Ride

©July 2014, Olan L. Smith


The three close friends sit in the lobby in deep discussion. "Alma, this is going to be a trip of a lifetime. It's the scariest ride ever!" Rick says it with enthusiasm.

Jennifer adds, "Yes, my cousin went on a ride for 120 rotations! He said it was thrilling and heartbreaking at the same time. Can you imagine 120 cycles? That's got to be one of the longest rides ever."

Alma speaks with some concern: "I'm not sure about this, guys; you know, I've never been on one of these rides before, and quite frankly, I don't see the use of them. However, since you have purchased my ticket, I guess I will accept the gift honorably. How long must I stay on this contraption?"

Rick replies, "Oh, Alma, I am so pleased that you are going with us. You can get off the ride anytime, but please wait until we all find each other; after all, there are many co-riders, and we will most certainly be separated on insertion."

"That's the fun of it, Alma." Exclaims Jennifer. Once the adventure begins, it is each person for themselves, and it is so real. You think every moment is life or death. Then, when you find someone you know from before the ride, bam! Deja-Vu. I remember one particular trip where I was so important that everyone looked up to me, and the next I was the lowest of the low; you never know what surprises the trip brings."

Rick adds, "Alma, don't be concerned. It is a short trip; it seems long at the time. In our time, it only lasts a few moments, and then you are back to your original self. Everything you do is time-delayed you know exactly what is going to happen before it happens, and you can abort at any moment."

"I have heard from some that you are unaware of yourself on this ride and that you only realize what happens when the trip is over," Alma half states and half inquires.





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