The priest is quoting a verse from the Bible. I am not sure whether I believe in a God out there. An invisible power out there ruling the world with a heavy but fairly compassionate hand. But my legs are broken and I am in excruciating pain. This freak accident has shown me how mortal I am. I have all the time to lie here and think back on all the things that I didn’t do, for when life seems fleeting away from us, what occupies us most is that which we put off and didn’t savor. Here I am thinking of Beverly. Beverly was a girl I knew in college when I resided in the dorms.
In the distance the priest continues to talk. He is reading the scripture… How can he think this is comforting? I would be better off being fed my last meal. What would I have liked? I have never eaten lobster. The thought that I am going to die without having ever tasted lobster sends me into a ridiculous panic. How many restaurants did I visit where I always declined the lobster and opted, always for a rare steak? I was a creature of habit. I could have lived more if I had allowed myself. But I was born with a strait jacket. Oh how I wish I could turn back the time. Cliche, yes.
Shrimp, I yell. Oh God I need some shrimp.
Now now, be quiet, try not to tire yourself. Go back to sleep, says the redhead nurse.
The priest makes the sign of the cross. Then he reads
Ephesians 6:12-13 King James Version (KJV)
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
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