The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Intention

by Anna McCambridge

A basket full of black condoms sits on the low table
in the center of the room; each one seems to mock me.
I pick one up, then return it to its family of
packaged safety products. I glance around at the "good
news" and religious lifestyles magazines on the 70s
style side table, then to the woman behind the glass.

I am alone.

In the corner of the waiting room, the T.V. tries to
get the message through: "ABSTINANCE IS THE BEST
METHOD OF PROTECTION FROM STDS AND UNWANTED
PREGNANCY!" It preaches depressing alternatives to
intercourse, using happy, attractive young actors who
can't act.

...