The Lilac Tunnel: My Journey with Samantha
Mount Bedford, NY – 1904I ease myself out of bed, one leg at a time. When the floor creaks, and I freeze, listening for changes in Samantha’s breath. But she doesn’t move. It takes forever to tiptoe across the floor and get dressed, but it’s worth it. After a long evening spent wearing skirts, my t-shirt and capris feel light and free. I find notepaper on Samantha’s desk and write a goodbye note. It says:
Dear Samantha,
I woke up and remembered where I was heading before I met you. My family is waiting for me. I should catch the first train out of Mount Bedford. Thank you for being a good friend and taking good care of me while I was here. I’ll never forget you.
Samantha, keep your eyes on the future—on your dreams. And remember: things are changing all the time.
I put the note on Samantha’s nightstand and sneak out into the hallway. As I reach for the locket around my neck, I feel guilty for leaving this way. Samantha was so good to me at the doctor’s office. She was brave for me when I couldn’t be. I wish I had courage like hers. And then I snap open the locket.
I brace myself for the impact, but when it comes, it’s soft and welcoming. I open my eyes and find myself back in the room I share with Gracie. It seems as if days have passed, but the clock still says 3:52. And beside the clock, is my cell phone.
I call Mom immediately, using her work number. When I hear her voice, my heart leaps. I missed her so much. She asked me what’s wrong, and I respond that nothing is wrong. But I’m just wondering if I ever had chicken pox. She hesitates a moment, and says no. She adds that I was vaccinated when I was little. I don’t need to worry.
Vaccinated? A cool wave of relief washes away the fear I’ve been feeling. I’m safe. I think of all the shots I’ve gotten over the years. I dreaded them, but never thought much about them afterward. And then I think of the little girl and her brother who were covered in blisters from head to toe. Will there be vaccinations for children in Samantha’s lifetime? Maybe someday. And there’ll be more women doctors giving the vaccinations, too. Will Samantha be one of them? One thing’s for sure: I know she’ll find a way to help other people, just like she helped me today.