The street was unusually quiet, considering it was
early afternoon on a sunny September day. None
of the usual noises from pedestrians or moving
vehicles were audible, all windows were shut and
not a single face peered from behind drawn curtains. In the
middle of the street was a traffic isle, almost completely covered
by a big pile of beige sand. The only sign of life was a little girl,
who discovered the latest spot for her to play. Being at home by
herself without toys, except for one doll she had received for her
5th birthday over a year ago from her godmother. Unfortunately
she was not allowed to play with that doll, because it was made
of porcelain, with real hair,
From parental tyranny to communist control and, finally, freedom in a new world--what a life I am glad I do not have to go through all that again.