text: It was dark. It was always dark, here in The Haven. &nbsp; I could hear the voices of the others, all around me, a chorus of whispers that together created a sea of noise. We all stood before the Gate, waiting until the time came when it opened. &nbsp; No one here knows where we are. We walk through the Passage without any memories. Are we in Purgatory? Does the Gate lead to Heaven? Does it lead to Hell? &nbsp; I can sense the fear; all around me, people are scared. This sometimes happens. There are times when many of us have the courage to walk through together, and other times when only one will. I too am scared, but I have been here long enough. &nbsp; Suddenly, the Gate opens, filling the cavern with blinding light. I see my people again, perhaps for the last time; their dark complexions and uneven surfaces seem abnormal to me, as though I can remember a time when we were supposed to look different. I can't though. This is all I've ever known. &nbsp; The crowd is not moving. There will be no one who will step forth today. &nbsp; I push past my people and make my way to the Gate. The light hurts to look at, though the beauty of it draws the eye back time and again. As I reach the Gate, I dare not look back. I jump. &nbsp; I am falling. All around me, the world is white. I have never been this happy. &nbsp; I hit water. &nbsp; ********** &nbsp; “Ah, fuck.” I curse, under my breath, as I feel the cold water of the toilet splash up against my arse. With a sigh, I put my phone away, wipe, flush and leave.