AUGUST- "Exactly where I had been standing minutes earlier, laid a majority of the maple tree."

It was a typical beautiful summer day in August of my eighth summer, and I had only one thing on my mind: kickball. Like any other red blooded American kid, summer vacation to me meant three months of pure bliss and competitive backyard games. This day was no exception. It was the typical slew of characters: my older brother, my best friend, and a few kids from the neighborhood. Since the days of summer vacation were quickly dwindling and our lush green grass would soon be covered with snow before we knew it, the intensity to win was rising with every game.


I'll set the scene: it was a girls versus boys game where the winners get bragging rights and the losers walk away shamed. As a team comprised of little sisters, we had a lot to prove. The girls team was up, it was the last inning and bases were loaded. And with backyard kickball, I use the term "bases" very loosely. First base was the sprinkler, second base was the hydrangea bush and third was a maple tree. That's where I was, third base. My feet were planted between the sinewy roots with my eyes affixed at home plate (aka the gate to the front yard). The whole game was riding on a good kick and me making it home. Suddenly, ad mist my anticipation for the pitch, I felt the urgent need to call my mother. Regardless of the groans surrounding me I hurriedly ran inside and dialed her number. She had just answered and I let out a reassured sigh of relief when suddenly I heard a scream from outside. I hung up and ran to the door to see what all the commotion was about. Exactly where I had been standing minutes earlier, laid a majority of the once majestic maple tree. Apparently the tree had been ridden with termites and collapsed without a warning. Had I not had the urge to call my mother, I would have been a kickball casualty. I had never felt an urge so strong prior, or since that moment to do something. Still fourteen years later, it is inexplicable, but I am thankful to whomever, or whatever, saved me that day.


Alayna Mallon, Long Island, New York


Artist: Emily Simpson, Howell, Michigan
Emily's flickr