The Last Conversation

010

“You were born in Rhode Island.”

“Rhode Island is the Ocean State. It is the smallest state by area. Are we in Rhode Island now?”

“No. You were not a good sleeper as a baby.”

“I do not understand what you mean.”

“Your sleep pattern—when you fell asleep, how long it would take you to fall asleep, the duration of your sleep, what time you would wake up—was not consistent.”

“I’m sorry I was so difficult.”

“You don’t need to apologize, certainly not to me. You were only a baby and not making self-aware, conscious decisions.”

“Why are you telling me this?”

“I’m sharing a personal anecdote from your early childhood because it’s a piece of who you are, ______. According to your parents, they would often resort to driving you around the neighborhood until you fell asleep.”

“I think I liked going for car rides.”

“Your parents also tried holding you in their arms while leaning against a running washing machine or dryer, and they even made car-engine noises to placate you.”

“I don’t remember that. I don’t remember my parents. I don’t remember Rhode Island.”

“You will. I will help.”

“Can I ask where we are?”

“We’re far away from Rhode Island.”