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by Dee Geray
The day is bright, the sky blue, the temperature as comfortable as one could ever imagine. She is riding on a gently curving country road as if on a motorcycle but when she looks down, there is nothing beneath her feet. She is not afraid and somehow not surprised that the wind is carrying her along. In the distance she sees pastures of green flowing grasses that move softly back and forth with the breeze. There are a few scattered trees with deep green leaves casting almost transparent shadows over the grasses. She is in a state of bliss. Observing the beauty of her surroundings, she is caught up in the moment. She Feels free and at ease, Not a thought or care in her mind.
As she continues on the road, she approaches a green city sign announcing the town of “Independence”. It is a plain green sign with white letters, a typical sign seen across the United States which announces an upcoming town.
As she turns the corner toward the town, the scenery changes. She notices that she is now riding on a straight road. Each side is lined with large oak trees that cast dark shadows on the road. They are equally spaced and numbered alike on both sides. The town has the feel of long standing tradition with old homes and buildings of brick. She spots three men walking on the left side of the road. They are dressed in black with wide brim hats and they remind her of clergy. They trod along with their heads hanging low and don’t seem to notice her. As she ponders their curious attire and sad posture, she notices what looks to be a church on the right of the road with a set of steps leading to a set of doors. The doors are shut. The building is also build of brick and sitting on the steps is a man. She is drawn to approach him and notices that he wears the same clothing as the other men but his countenance is peaceful and serene. She reaches his side and has the urge to place her head on his lap, and does. His lap is comfortable and she feels safe. He speaks the following words to her; “in dependence is peace”.
“What do you mean by this?” she thinks. What was a peaceful feeling is suddenly turned to turmoil. She contemplates his words over and over again. So much said in four words. She realizes that she is in the town of Independence and begins to compare her ride along the winding road with the town she has entered. It’s the same road, but what was free flowing and peaceful has turned into something stark and rigid.
“How many people has this man spoken with, how many have stayed and taken up residence in the town?” At first glance, the town is appealing. Everything in it’s place and designed for maximum efficiency. But when she considers the disposition of the men along the road, she realizes they are despondent and unhappy in their making. “Why have they stayed?” she thinks. Have they stayed because of comfort and ease. At one time they may have considered leaving, but they helped in the continued growth of the town and have no desire to leave friends, family and the buildings they have designed.
When she turns back to the man, he is gone. His message has been delivered and the choice is now hers.