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While in California on business, my boss and a coworker went to see The Queen Mary. I've always been completely fascinated by ships (both sunken and afloat). I'm not a sea-going person, but I have always been interested...
I was very excited when we first glimpsed the ship across the harbor, but as we approached-I got a kind of jittery feeling in my stomach, which I dismissed. We did not take the guided tour and simply followed the arrows through the engine rooms etc. I kept seeing a sign that said 'propeller box'. I didn't know what that meant, but I was taking pictures of everything and looked forward to seeing this 'propeller box'. As we approached the dark door, I had my camera ready, my coworker went in, and my boss was following me.
All I remember is a glimpse of the huge propeller under water with some sort of light behind it...The moment I passed through the door, I was absolutely overcome by blind terror. The only clear thought I remember having was "I CAN'T BE HERE!" I couldn't even scream-I just whimpered as I literally threw myself backwards (almost knocking my boss over the railing) and out the door-I didn't stop running until I hit the outside deck. We were on the ship for another hour and I didn't stop shaking the entire time, nor could I bring myself to touch any of the woodwork, railings, anything that was original to the ship.
I have never been claustrophobic, and I've never experienced that kind of instant fear before. I was still jumpy the following day, and had nightmares for some time after. I don't know what caused it.
Well, that's it, for what it's worth.
Shari
Thanks so much for this contribution, Shari!
