16 Minutes

I had a dream a few nights ago and felt so blessed that it was just a dream.* My house was on fire and firefighters could not save it. No one's health and life were at risk nor were pets endangered because I was the only one home. Whatever possessions to be saved depended on me. I had never been in a position like that, and furthermore, I had only 16 minutes to save seven things. I whispered a prayer and began to prioritize what to leave in and what to take out. I did not have time to worry about what others would think of my choices. My 16 minutes quickly unfolded, but the 7 things did not come easy. I grabbed the Family Bible from the living room table and sat it at the exit, realizing that to be the most important book in the life of my family. I quickly reflected upon the joys we have shared together and retrieved as many family pictures as possible. I am praying without ceasing because I understand that I cannot do this task on my own. I dash to areas where we keep important documents and records, some of which are on paper, videotapes, etc. It's hard to think rationally when you are chasing a clock surrounded by smoke and fire. I reach for some other special books we hold dear and take the armload to the door. I still have time to get my computer that's loaded with much of my poetry and writings. I'm moving very rapidly as I reach for my hard copy writings stashed away in a tote. It amazes me that it often takes a crisis, an emergency, for us to come to terms with what really matters most. I have a couple minutes left and I really don't know what to reach for next. What last thing is there in my house that I really must have? Thirty seconds elapsed and I rembered my 'Quarter Collection' which essentially has very little monetary value but a lot of personal and educational value when I consider the time and interest put into the collection. Thank God It's just a dream! 22519PoSoupContest, Seven Things You Would Save If Your House Was On Fire, Karen Krutsinger.*Fiction for contest