The Choice

The dog heard him coming before I did. She woke out of a deep sleep on the rug and was completely alert and whining at the door. I knew this day was coming, but I hoped I had a little more time for goodbyes. I was not ready, but I am of age now. I had 18 years to enjoy my freedom. 18 years to prepare for the choice I had to make. Today is my 23rd birthday and become an adult in the eyes of the government. A knock at my door sends Sadie to my side; I laid my hand on her head to calm her. With nowhere to hid or run, we sat together one last time I petted her head that was now resting in my lap. “Come in,” my voice did not sound like mine, but that of a confident woman. Calm almost regal, but I could feel the fear rising through my stomach and into my throat. I forced it back down as the armed guard entered my bedroom with my parents standing behind him ready to say their goodbyes. They say we have a choice in the next stage of our lives, but this so called “perfect system” is not for me. “You may say your goodbyes.” The man instructed my parents sternly. I stood up as my dad embraced me “My brave girl” he whispered in my ear. “I am so proud and love you so much. I wish I were as brave as you when I was given the choice.” He said sobbing. “I love you too Dad. I am sorry you cannot join me.” I told him. “As am I. When you get where you are going, tell Him I am sorry.” My dad requested shame filling his voice. Before I could assure him that I would, he kissed my cheek and left the room. My Mom looked at me, “You can still change your mind and stay here with your father and I.” She pleaded. I smiled at her and gave her a small hug. “I made my choice. I am not willing to take that mark. Dad taught me who my Father is, and I will meet him today. It may be to late for you all, but I will not condemn my soul to an eternity of hell for this so called Utopia.” I told her. Defeated, she kissed me goodbye and left the room to join my dad. I kissed Sadie goodbye and told her to be a good girl for my dad then followed the man outside to my choice, the Guillotine. I laid down and looked to the sky. Trying to drown out the cheers from my friends, neighbors, and family, the man who brought me outside pulled the rope silenced them all for me.