Providence, USA
1986



It is morning. I am enclosed in darkness and silence.

I hear sounds of people stirring. Water running, cloth rustling. Then, finally, whispered voices from outside my small prison.

Good morning, honey. Happy Birthday.

Thank you, love. I need to go to work. I have a class to teach in a little bit. Go back to sleep!

I'll see you this evening, OK? Before you go, look on top of my bureau. See the box? Take it, it's a little something I found for you for your birthday.

Oh, thank you. ... I can't open it now, I'll take it with me. Is that OK?

Sure. Have a great day. Love you!

I am shaken in my packaging and lifted into the air. I hear many sounds as I move, and finally find a resting place somewhere in a vehicle that makes loud sounds as it moves.