Don't Follow

Growing up, I thought spontaneous human combustion would be more prevalent than it is today. Now, the thought of death at any point is cruel and mostly unmerited, following the guide of common sense and moderate tutelage. But, like quicksand, safety can only protect so much.

I can confidently say I never met anyone who has known death by internal combustion. Or quicksand for that matter. I have had the unfortunate meeting with Death, but for some reason I get sent back. My family jokes that I've used up my nine lives and borrowed some of theirs. That's why I say, Don't Follow. There is no guarantee your odds are similar.

I was 6 or so, riding around on bikes on the street we lived on at the time. My father was recovering from a surgery he had the day before, so mom tended to him that day. Before walking out the door, I was told firmly to “stay out of the road”! I listened for a grand total of 5 minutes before my front tire decided to hop the curb. What was she talking about, I'm fine. Back to the sidewalk I went to find the neighborhood babysitter. Basically, all the kids in the neighborhood hung out at this small complex. One of the tenants kept an eye on us and our families paid her. I told her I had just did a sweet jump and asked if she wanted to see it. She obliged.

One more quick pop and I was back in the street. Before our babysitter could sream, “Get out of the street,” it was too late. Car smashed into my bike, sending me flying over it and landing on a curb. The two men that hit me apparently knew my dad and decided to drive off, praying he didn't come out of the house before they got away. I woke up at the hospital some time later to machines beeping and mom crying. I began to try to talk but felt too weak to do so. After some recovery time, I could finally speak. The guys that hit me actually came to the hospital to see me and apologize. Gave me a Barney stuffed animal. Once home, I apologized to my mom and dad and enjoyed a summer of inside activities. Please, Don't Follow. If you do, wear a helmet.