A Life of Wonder

In 2035, scientists, supported by an underworld of women mob bosses, genetically engineered men’s bodies to make the act of ejaculation horrifically painful. It happened without warning, or explanation.Instantly, screams filled the hallways of apartment buildings, dorms and hospitals. Dogs howled. Women consoled their miserable partners. The military, fearing chemical warfare, were deployed. Only half of them showed for duty. Celibate priests were protected by their vows.The most promiscuous men dared not enjoy the flesh they craved. Childless couples lay like siblings in the marriage bed. For the 33 weeks, men were terrified, celibate, and perplexed. Those men who defied this new state of affairs experienced pain so hot it purified them, causing their eyes to see double and their knees to buckle. Meanwhile, women walked proudly on the street fearing no shadows. And for 33 weeks, the press, the CDC, the military, and even me–we all speculated about what or who caused this agony. And on the 34th week, without warning we were set free. .The Nobel Prize that year went to Dr. Carmen De Santos for finding a cure. Many hated her wanting the pain to last an entire generation. Few babies were born during this time, and the ones that were had an exceptional tolerance for pain. – ZJB