Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Sightseeing (08/08/05)
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TITLE: Mrs. Green's Tour | Previous Challenge Entry
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08/14/05 -
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On the way to answer the door, her legs become wobbly and she misses a step, and quickly succumbs to a state of panic. Thump! She opens her eyes and finds them out of focus. She blinks until the image before her becomes clearer.
She hears, “Welcome,” and a peculiarly large man offers his hand to her, and they board a train. Once aboard she finds the ride to be effortless without the usual halts and jerks -- it seemed to glide on air. When it does stop the riders exit two by two. Within burgundy colored ropes on each side a sea of people coral there way in front of a large building with columns.
Mrs. Green’s escort takes her to a shorter line just inside and to the left where a few are waiting. As each one is processed, the line gets shorter and it is her turn. They approach the window with a large sign that reads, “Visitors Only.” This all made sense in a quirky sort of way, although this was not what she had in mind when she agreed to go away with her son and his family.
“Next!” The attendant behind the window hollers.
Mrs. Green’s escort leans towards the opening in the glass. “We are here for a short tour. This is Mrs. Green from Grove Street.”
The attendant moves his pointer quickly down a list. “Let me see. Ah, yes. Mrs. Green.” He takes a bright yellow ticket, stamps it, and hands it to the man. “Enjoy your visit!”
They both proceed down a long corridor to a red door. Mrs. Green is starting to question where she is and why. “Where are we going,” she asks.
“I’m taking you on a sightseeing tour.”
Mrs. Green says aloud, “Sightseeing?
They approach the red door and it swings open instantly. Mrs. Green is in awe as she observes the scenery. It is far greater than what she imagined from all those travel books she and Mr. Green delighted in reading when he was alive. On most rainy afternoons without having to pack, they would venture off together to distant lands.
He gently replies to reassure her, “Our first stop is just ahead.”
They walk along at a fast pace, yet she does not begin to wheeze from her asthma. She questions it in the quiet of her mind. In two shakes, they enter a red brick building and go into a room where students young and old are being taught. Mrs. Green is surprised to see a very familiar face.
“Oh my God, that’s Harry!”
“He won’t acknowledge you,” the escort responds. “Because you are only a visitor, no one can see you.”
It was heartbreaking, after fifteen years of being separated Harry was unaware of her presence. Mrs. Green’s tone becomes increasingly concerned. “Why have you brought me here,” she exclaims.
On the move again, they arrive at a quaint cottage with flowers and vines that seem to swallow up the beautiful stone craftsmanship.
“Oh my, this reminds me of Europe.”
Approaching the back of the property, they find a couple having tea on the patio. Mrs. Green’s heart begins to race and her eyes well up with tears. “Mom, is that you?” Then after rubbing both eyes, she calls out, “Dad?” Mrs. Green turns to her escort and gives emphasis to her question by complementing him first, “You look like a nice fellow. Tell me is this a dream?”
“No Mrs. Green, you’re in heaven.”
Her heart suddenly felt at peace, and every unanswered question solved, except one.
“I was wondering, since I’m a visitor this time around, how do I know for sure that I can stay next time?”
“Glad you asked,” the escort said. “Be sure to read your Bible -- basic instructions before leaving earth -- attend church regularly, and most importantly, believe in Jesus.”
On Grove Street, the EMT specialists are working feverishly on Mrs. Green to revive her with various gadgets and tubes.
Mrs. Green’s head is pounding. She opens her eyes and gasps for air on her own.
“That sure was a nice trip. The next time though, I’m staying for eternity!”
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