It always feels like a test devised by some cruel anonymous hand.
Every time I encounter one I need to stop, take a deep breath and collect
myself. I cast a quick look to each side maybe, maybe there is another way, and
then, and only then, when I am convinced this is my only option, I go deeper
into myself and pull at my inner strength. Like a worrier before the moment of
contact I watch for the right instant and step in.
Panic,
Will I be locked inside, doomed to go around and around in this clever
web, while others, on the outside watch, point, and sneer? Those few seconds
when I am feeling utterly helpless and exposed seem like eternity.
And then I see the other side,
OK, I can do this, I did it before. It’s just a matter of precise
timing. Pick the right moment; unglue my feet and walk away that is all. I throw
a quick look back, behind my shoulder, and see the glass wing approaching,
ready to close on me. Another deep breathe, maybe even a short prayer. I
command my left leg to move forward as the rest of me lugs behind. I am out.
Ah, the relief.
In the last second I almost yield to the urge to send my hand and
slam it but then I remember; “Whoever said nothing is impossible never tried to
slam a revolving door.”
So while I am still on a winning streak, I force a shaky smile,
raise my head, and walk away.
On the one hand, I'm a great fan of writing about very trivial things, as here. On the other, I hate when writers withhold information to create a 'surprise' ending--so, for me, this piece is a wash.
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