Photo courtesy of Randy Mazie
So many ways this photo could go….dreams gone wrong, investments badly made, “Acts of God” damage, post-apocalyptic…the choices go on. For me, it’s a love story. Go figure.
Word count: 99
What Was Lost
Ellen turned away from the abandoned hotel, roiling with anguish. Fifteen years ago, family and friends gathered here to share the joy of their wedding. Losing her husband left her with half a heart, feeling stretched too thin, like a skin of ice on an early winter day.
This visit was a pilgrimage, her stations of the cross of their marriage.
“At least the church is still here.” Her sister held her hand, steering her away from the sight.
Glancing over her shoulder one last time, Ellen said goodbye. Just another shell, housing the memory of what was lost.
© Erin Leary
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erinlearywrites 
Poignant one from you this week Erin, nicely done.
Sad but lovely interpretation of the prompt. A very unique interpretation, too!
You’ve really managed to convey the feeling of loss.
Dear Erin,
Lovely story. I particularly loved “stations of the cross of their marriage.” Nicely told.
Shalom,
Rochelle
“This visit was a pilgrimage, her stations of the cross of their marriage.” This was a brilliant line, Erin… lots of great things in this one.
Wow-what a sad but beautiful piece!My fav lines were ,”..like a skin of ice on an early winter day.” and” Just another shell, housing the memory of what was lost.”
Well, hopefully they had some good times before she lost her husband. A very sad and reflective piece.
Such a sad story.. wonder if this pilmgreage is the right way towards recovery.
Reality for so many women…especially when they’re older…
Photo prompt used well! It’s a story about something we all do it: revisit places from our past. Your story begs the question: will the visit cleanse and heal? I would be interested to read on … 🙂