Three Bad Dreams Written July 29, 2002   Background:  I still experience these nightmares occasionally, though I've been out of college more than 30 years.  None of the events really took place.  But in all the dreams, I'm panicking over what's about to happen to me. The first, according to this article, is quite common.   TOO SMART FOR THIS This professor is easy.  The course is a snap,       And the lectures are optional, too. By the end of the year, we must read seven books,       But no papers or quizzes are due. At the start of the year, I enrolled in this course       And inquired in what room the class met. I've forgotten the answer!  I skipped that first class,       And I haven't attended one yet. But now the year is ending. The final test is pending. Those seven books?  Outsmarted, I haven't even started. I should show up for class, I know; I have no inkling where to go.   LEAVING THE NEST Now, beloved alma mater,       Graduation nears! By next month I'll have completed       All four college years. I've been happy here on campus       With my many friends. Now I worry what will follow       When this chapter ends. I've no clue where I should live now,       What career pursue. I've no plans.  Just one thing's certain:       College days are through. But perhaps they need not end yet!       O, the thought sublime: Next fall I could be a freshman       For a second time! This nest need not be abandoned!       There's no cause for tears! Let me earn a second sheepskin;       Give me four more years!   THE ABANDONED PASSENGER I'm riding down the road.       I'm in the back seat       Of my parents' sedan, Just riding down the road. There's no one at the wheel!       My parents aren't here,       And I'm all by myself With no one at the wheel. I've got to take control,       Climb into the front,       Start driving the car. It needs someone's control. I can't get my leg up over the seat!       I'm trapped in the back.  Paralysis.  Fear. Lean over the seat!  Seize hold of the wheel!       Still can't reach the brakes; at least I can steer. Maybe I can slow down if I shift down to a somewhat lower gear.