Big Decision

This passage is about a boy with an important decision to make about his future.

Lexile Level: 880L

Categories: People & Places Adventure

Matthew likes walking. When he is upset, he walks. When he is happy, he walks. If he has a big decision to make, he walks, and that is what has propelled Matthew along the abandoned railroad tracks today. Along the way, he finds old, rusty railroad spikes that have gradually worked free from the wood and steel they once held in place. He decides to use one of the spikes to help him make his decision. He picks up a spike. He will toss it high over his head, and if it lands pointing towards him, he will go to college in his home town. If the spike points away from him when it comes down, he will go to the college on the other side of the state. As soon as it leaves his hand, he knows how he wants it to land, and, therefore, his decision has been made.