Erin Curlett

My dreams are plagued by a recurring nightmare about a tidal wave.

It begins with a hush and a roar and the realization that it’s too late to run.

I don’t run — not because it’s too late, but because there’s something else for me to do before the water comes.

I believe there’s still a way out, but the way out isn’t by running.

I hear a cry and look up to see a little boy, perched high on an apartment balcony or a tree limb. He is terrified and alone and I know it’s my job to save him from drowning.

I do reach him. For a few brief moments there is peace as his small hand slips into mine. He smiles at me, and we are safe.

It’s not logical, to believe that a tidal wave will stop because of hands making contact. Yet in my dream, it always does.