Modern Life
On Trial
Seth awoke curled up on a cold metal bench to the sound of jingling keys unlocking his cell. He tried to cover his eyes from the bright fluorescent lights, but the guard lifted him to his feet pulling his hands away from his face. The chains on Seth’s ankle shackles barely reached the handcuffs on his wrists, and pulled his hands to his waist. He squinted at the guard. “What day is it?”
The guard checked to make sure all the locks were secure. “For you, it’s day six. We’ll see how long you last. Now move! You’re up in five minutes.”
Seth sat in the witness stand for several hours without a break, his sweat-stained shirt giving testimony to his discomfort. His eyes followed the prosecutor as she paced steadily across the room. It was hard to focus, let alone pay attention.
The prosecutor turned to Seth. “You realize you have enough sins to be locked up behind the gates of hell forever.”
Seth leaned forward, eyes opened wide. “I told you, I’m not a bad guy. I changed.”
“Come on Seth. How much more Past Finder footage do you have to see? You know we’re just showing a few of your highlights so you can convert before the heavy stuff gets aired. I assure you it will stamp your ticket to the lake of fire! And do you know what’s worse than that? Knowing what everyone is going to think of you.”
Seth turned his head. “I don’t believe you.”
The prosecutor leaned toward him and whispered in his ear. “I can help you. All you have to do is confess to the king and you will be forgiven. He forgives all who ask. That’s why he is here… That’s why we are here. God knows your heart, but you are in a cult that will sentence you to death.”
Seth resisted. “I… I can’t do that.”
She pulled back and slapped him. “You idiot! You have a chance to wipe your entire Past Finder record clean, and instead you’re going to continue to allow it to be broadcast for the world to see?”
Seth leaned back, shaking his head. “No. That’s who I was. Not now. . . I’m different.”
“People do not change Seth.”
“Yes they do. They grow up and mature… some like me later than others.”
“Listen to yourself. Time means nothing in the spiritual world. You did what you did. Take your forgiveness now, before it’s too late. If you don’t get through this process here, you’re going to be sentenced with the penalty of being left behind.” She grabbed Seth by the shoulders. “You can’t possibly take on the Past Finder. It chews up Christians all day long. You’ve seen the television broadcasts.”
Seth tried to move his shoulders to get her hands off, but his body wouldn’t move. “I don’t believe you. The Christ I know forgives.”
She shook him harder, but when she opened her mouth to speak, all her teeth were sharp, and her voice in slow motion like a record on a slow speed. “Seth… Wake up… Wake up! You’re having a bad dream.”
Seth opened his eyes to see Megumi standing over him beside the bed. “What… I’m home? Oh thank God. I couldn’t wake up. I was really there this time.”
Megumi wiped his sweat with a towel. “Your dreams are happening a lot Seth. Why don’t you see someone?”
“I have to do something. I’m sorry about this Megumi. When did you get home?”
“A couple hours ago. I’m watching Japanese TV. Anyway, it’s after two in the morning. Try to get some sleep.”
Six hours later Seth sat at his computer to write, but the remnant of his dream kept him from getting lost in his novel. He saw his cell phone on the charger, picked it up and scrolled to his friend.
He almost hung up, but heard a voice on the other side. “Good morning Seth.”
“Hey Randy.”
“Did you get my email?”
“Not yet. I haven’t been online today. Hey man, remember those dreams I told you about? Well they are getting stronger. Last night was so vivid. I swear I was there.”
“It’s not uncommon for a person to manifest dreams while dealing with the pressures of life. The mind is very powerful. I have several patients dealing with this issue lately. Men and women.”
Seth grabbed the back of his neck, rubbing it. “This feels different than a normal dream. This is about the future.”
Randy cleared his throat. “Or some type of guilt that you think will have future ramifications.”
“I swear some day you’re going to tell me I’m crazy.”
“We’re all crazy, Seth. I’ve known you for over fifteen years now, and you’re far from being one of my patients. We all walk a fine line, and I’ve never seen you cross it. Maybe you just need a break.”
“If my dreams start happening for real, I hope you’ll recall this conversation. I know the trials are coming Randy. It’s written.”
“The Bible is a book Seth, not a blueprint for reality.”
Seth grabbed an empty beer can and started to work his way to the kitchen. “Well if that’s true, why is reality aligning perfectly with what’s in the book?”
Randy laughed. “That’s your reality. Speaking of reality, how’s your sword routine coming along?”
“Not good. I took some time off and now I’m struggling with a few sections.”
“Maybe we can get together and get you back on track.”
Seth put the can on the counter. “That would be great. I’ll ask Megumi to make a real nice Japanese dinner.” He opened the fridge and grabbed another can.
“Do you think she’d make Nabe for us? I love her Kimchi Nabe.”
Seth returned to the office. “Sure. What are your plans next week?”
“Our complex is having a party Friday. I’m making Chinese decorations to hang around the courtyard.”
“Right on… let’s touch base early in the week. I’ll check your email and send a reply.” Seth sat in his chair and opened the can.
“Hey are you drinking already?”
Seth laughed. “You mean Coors Light? Really? That’s not drinking. That’s breakfast. I’m going to try and write this morning, then play in the garden this afternoon.”
“Alright, well I better go.”