2082

draw the curtain

look

you're only sleeping

or is this only what the other you is dreaming?

either way

hard to take

ashen features unmistakably your own

familiar posture

recast in skin and bone

person from today

here is you in 2082

remove your helmet

first equalize the pressure

no

but first

take readings to be sure

the atmosphere is safe

yes

it's safe

as the ancient one cranes his neck to look

you see his hand's been replaced with a hook

but it's clear you're very much alive

it's 2105

no

it's 2240

no

it's 3415

how can you still be living?

what does this mean?

you must honor and respect the older fellow

even as you suffocate him with his pillow

though you're strong

he was wise

there is much you can learn from the sage

and though you'll leave and travel back to your own age

you will meet again

you two

in 2082

what was the look he gave intended to convey?

was there something else he was trying to say?

it will all be revealed to you

in 2082