Out and About

Tweet

I only had a few things, and so while most people were securing their items in lockers, I was already queuing up for the lunch meal. There were a lot of people around that I did not know, and that made me uneasy. I tried to make myself look as inconsequential as possible, even slightly unapproachable. I was horrid at conversations, and half deaf to boot. I did not fancy having to say "huh" half a dozen times before the person finally gave up. My bum leg made it hard for me to walk any faster than a geriatric turtle, and so by the time I made it to the line, ten people had already passed me and were on the way to getting their lunch. The ladies behind the counter asked me what I wanted, and I would point. I am sure they thought I was being rude, but I did not like my voice as I knew I was not enunciating every word properly. I felt eyes on me as I made it to the table with the group that I was assigned to. I sat several seats away from everyone else, and I was glad when no one approached me. I was only able to afford a banana, two graham crackers and some milk, so it surprised when a container of apple sauce skidded down the table and towards me. I did not open it, nor did I bother looking up to make eye contact with the person who sent it my way. I was happy with my paltry meal, even if I knew my stomach would be growling a few hours later. I didn't take too well to charity, I'd survived my whole life only on what I could afford, and I wasn't about to start accepting handouts. The meal was a short one as we were on an already tight schedule. Some people were only able to shove the food into their mouth and save what they could in the small backpack we were allowed. I left the apple sauce on the table as I turned to follow the group. A rough tap on my shoulder alerted me that someone had been trying to get my attention. Usually I would turn around and offer an apology, but since I assumed it was the person who sent me the apple sauce, I chose to ignore it. --- And then I didn't wake up. The dream actually continued, but well this post is already getting longer than what people like to read so... If you want to know what else happened just ask... What is the worst thing you've ever tasted?