Word Count

In an effort to curb my senseless chatter, Sarah would tell me of life’s word count, how each person is given a certain amount of words to speak in her life and if she talks too much when she’s young, she'll go prematurely mute. Each time I was reminded of this biological law, great shame would pass over me as I thought of my reckless use of language. Like a sinner on Sunday, I would repent my carelessness, vowing silence. Though each of my countless conversions lasted less than an hour, I hope I’ve saved enough to verbally retire on.