for UU Band of Writers, Sept.2, 2018
prompt/theme: hand
I got in my car and went on a journey today. I was looking for a teacher who could help reveal my real self. It was cloudy and the roads were filled with summer tourists. I don't know what they were looking for. I am always amazed that they come. Our town is not historic, but it is pretty country out here; maybe a good place to live or visit if you don't know who you are.
Along the way, a hitchhiker stuck out his hand. "Where are you going?" I asked. He said, "I'm looking for a dragon to slay." He was an athletic-looking dude, about 40. I wondered if I had stopped to pick him up because he was good-looking. I told him I was looking for a teacher. "I think I know where he is" he said. "How do you know that?" I asked. "Let's just say I know where to find one. Turn right up here at the light," he said.
I had just quit my job because I could no longer tolerate being told what to do, and didn't feel connected to my work at the grocery store. "I need food for the soul," I told the dude. "What your name?" "Norman," he said. "I used to work at the radio station." "Why did you quit?" I asked. "Because I want to make music now, not just play it." Music feeds the soul, he told me. "OK, turn here" Norman said.
Suddenly a strange feeling came over me. I hadn't been down this road before. It was very thickly shaded, with houses far from the street. The crowds were gone. "Most people don't come down this street, because it's too scary," said Norman. Where does it lead, I asked. "To your soul" said Norman. The road got winding, and rough. Why haven't I been down this road before, I wondered. "Maybe you weren't ready," Norman said, reading my mind. "OK, park here in this small lot; we'll walk," Norman said.
On the trail, we were enveloped in mist. A lake appeared, and the Loch Ness Monster showed up. Over by the trees I saw Big Foot. Then we arrived at a huge gate. Uncle Tom's Dragon Farm, the sign said.
"OK Eric, just go here and register. I'm going over this way to slay a dragon," said Norman. "Welcome!" the teacher said. "I don't have any money," I said. "That's OK, your first day is free. You will be learning to ride a dragon today. Don't worry, they are friendly. My name is Mr. Montgomery." "I'm Eric" I said. "I know. I am your great great grandfather John." Now I was thoroughly confused. "Don't worry, you come here, and time stops." "Am I dead?" I asked. "Not yet," said John. "That's the advanced course. You'll be grateful." "OK, I said."
Continue the story with part 2: Dorothy's Visit