A Conversation, Before the Lights Go Dim

Mr. D: Hello, are you Alexandria Marie Thomas?

Alex: Yes.

Mr. D: Born December 22nd, 1971?

Alex: Yes, that’s me, and you are?

Mr. D: Alexandria is it true you are unwed and have no kids?

Alex: Yes. Wait, what are checking off on that clipboard?

Mr. D: I apologize, a few more questions please.

Alex: I don’t know about this. Who are you?

Mr. D: I go by many names, but you can call me Mr. D.

Alex: Mr. D? Ok, Mr. D, what is this all about?

Mr. D: Standard operating procedure, I assure you, Alexandria.

Alex: For what?

Mr. D: We’ll get to that. Now, what city were you born in?
Alex: I don’t think I want to answer anymore, until I know what’s going on.

Mr. D: It makes the survey so much harder if you know what it’s for, now. Just a few more, Ok?

Alex: I don’t know. I think I want to know, now.

Mr. D: Would it suffice to say that it is an entry survey?

Alex: Entry into what?

Mr. D: The next level. Unmarried and no children, right?

Alex: Yes, but what next level?

Mr. D: The one after this one. Birth city, please?

Alex: Vail, Colorado. Should I be worried? I mean, I don’t know what is going on here.

Mr. D: We are almost done, and then all your questions will be answered.

Alex: Almost done?

Mr. D: Almost, Alexandria.

Alex: Ok, but please call me Alex.

Mr. D: Last question, Alex. Have you enjoyed your life?

Alex: Some days, most days I guess, why?

Mr. D: Ok, thank you for your time. Are you ready to go?

Alex: Where?

Mr. D: Take my hand, please, I’ll show you.

Alex: It’s cold and dark in here.

Mr. D: Only for now, let’s keep going.

Alex: I’m scared Mr. D, where am I?

Mr. D: Alex, we are the end and at the beginning.

Alex: Am I dead? Is that what this is? How did this happen?

Mr. D: It’s best if you don’t know the details.

Alex: I want to know the details!

Mr. D: Alex, this is the last door. I can’t make you go through it; all I can do is suggest you do.

Alex: And if I don’t?

Mr. D: What happens on this side of the door is different for everyone. I don’t know your future.

Alex: What’s on the other side?

Mr. D: Your next chapter.

Alex: Why am I here? Why now?

Mr. D: My job is to fetch you when it’s time and it’s your time. I don’t know the “Why.”

Alex: Does D stand for Death? Are you Death, the Grim Reaper?

Mr. D: I told you, I have many names, all of which I answer to.

Alex: So this is it?

Mr. D: I am sorry, yes.

Alex: I just walk through this door here?

Mr. D: Yes.

Alex: Well D, thanks for the ride, I guess.

Mr. D: My pleasure, Alex. Good luck to you.