At forty-six years old I had an irrational fear of the dentist. It was universally known as that scary place as doctors poke around at your teeth, wash your mouth with inedible liquids that leave the familiar burn of bile at the back of your throat. Where they place cameras inside to determine whether they need to drill something in. At least that’s what I thought…

I sat in the dull waiting room. The sporadic intervals of which the dentists came in and called some random name, condemning them to their inevitable fate. I waited and waited, anxious for when I would be called. I was anticipating the moment ready for out to be done and dusted but at the same time I savoured each victory when someone else’s name would be called, i would know I would have at least 15 minutes before the next name could be mine.

“Epicetus Song, your dentistry appointment has been cancelled. I am extremely sorry for the inconvenience, we offer full refunds or the oppurtunity to move your appointment in a few days time. Whatever you prefer.” The dishevelled lady at the counter gave an unsure smile.

I however, was overtaken by a sweet-feeling bliss. I had been saved! I could practically kiss the person at the counter, who’s like 60 years old, and everyone else. I was so glad to not have to go to the dentist. I was poor-disciplined and understood that now my appointment was cancelled it would be a VERY long time until they see me again. HA! Take that.

This time, instead of trudging down the hallway aware of my grim fate, i galloped and twisted, danced my way down the hallway. No more dentist. No more poking and prodding at my perfectly good smile.

I made the way to the bus stop where I soon parted the bus. Enveloped in my happiness I sat on the bus scrolling through my mail on my phone. I left at the appropriate stop and thanked the bus driver. I was in such a great mood.

I opened the door to the house and were greeted by my 2 smiling children. They squeezed me tightly before surrendering me to my wife.

“I heard your appointment got cancelled.” She said in a teasing tone. Crap!