I lay on my back on the sidewalk, my legs spread and raised, as if I were preparing for a pelvic exam. I was hyper alert, taking in all the sights and sounds around me. I felt no pain. Most people walked around me, but occasionally someone stopped to say, “You’ll be all right” or “I’m sure you’re just fine.” Their voices droned on, irritating me. I had to stop the chatter.
“How do you know I’ll be all right?” I challenged the next person.
“Because I’m a doctor.”
“What kind of a doctor are you?” I asked the stranger.
“An obstetrician-gynecologist.”
I almost laughed, considering the awkward spread of my legs. “Thank you for your kindness,” I told him, “but you’re not getting near me!” (more…)