The Lottery

The Lottery
 "Step right up folks! Get your lottery ticket. If you win you get the person of your dreams! That's right! With our high tech equipment we scan your mind, your heart, and your soul and create just the kind of mate who is perfect for you! Don't be afraid folks! Step right up and see who will be the lucky winner!"


 People lined up for miles around. It was too good to be true. The person of your dreams for the rest of your life created especially for you.


 As each person bought their ticket, they were guided into a special waiting area where they all stood to see who was going to be the lucky winner. There was excitement in the air. One lady cried out in a shrill voice, "Oh I hope I win! I have just the man in mind!"


 Everyone was so exuberant that it seemed like it would take forever for the stage hands to get the last of the tickets placed into the giant metal cage. Finally, it was done.


 The man on stage pressed a button and the cage turned repeatedly insuring that the tickets were thoroughly mixed. Finally, the huge cage slowly spun to a stop. The host reached inside.


 "And the lucky winner is... drum roll please... Number 6507519. That's 6507519! Would you please come up on stage?


 A man pushed his way through the crowd and appeared on stage. The numbers were checked and they matched. The winner was placed in a special chair and his heart, mind, and soul were scanned. Soon there was a ding and a lovely lady walked out of the preparation chamber and came and took the man by the arm.


 "That will be all for tonight," said the announcer.


 He then reached over, pulled a lever, and the rest of the contestants were dropped into a giant vat of boiling oil.