Rachel's Geese

When I was young I knew I could fly, the same way I knew I could whistle and tie my shoes. None of those things had happened yet, but I was sure it was only a matter of time. I do whistle and tie my shoes now, when the mood strikes, but I still only fly when I’m asleep. In dreams I fly mostly indoors – partly because it’s fun to push off the wall and float gently across the room, and partly because I’m not eager for the kind of attention I’d receive if anyone caught me in the act. You’d think as winter approaches, I’d be dreaming of southward flight. But high altitudes make me dizzy and disoriented. It’s exhausting to go more than a few miles. And the thought of being airborne near Nellis Air Force Base gives me the shivers. Still, if you ever see me on the rooftop wearing a cape, watch out!