Fear Takes A Holiday

Doom was rapidly approaching. Avoiding disaster was impossible. Escape was reserved for those whose free will had long since been compromised.

What hidden horror lay just beyond the horizon?

Was civilization, as the world knew it about to end?

Were extraterrestrials preparing to annihilate the planet?

Had global warming led to a climatic catastrophe?

John would have gladly faced any combination of the above scenarios than the horror that was mere days away. With sweaty palms and a stomach that could only be settled by popping Rolaids like candy, he contemplated his options.

He could join the priesthood, but his somewhat firm flirtation with Atheism would probably hold him back.

He could enlist, however fainting at the first site of blood, especially his own, would definitely be a hindrance.

Working his way around the world on a series of cargo ships might be the answer that is if he had not suffered from horrible bouts of seasickness.

Buddhism and a Tibetan monastery offered a brief glimmer of hope until he accepted the fact that vows of silence and hours of meditation would not work with his lifestyle.

No in the end escape was not practical, possible or doable. One and only one option remained. He must stand firm, face his fears and move forward with his life.

Damn these Hallmark holidays. Damn St. Valentine. Damn the cost of being in love.