Photo Courtesy of Sandra Crook
This rooftop reminded me of St. Basil’s Cathedral in Red Square, Moscow. I’ve been looking at photos from my travels as I put together a photo book, and my thoughts went immediately there. I am certain the election results are shaping my thoughts as I write this. Worry is the word of the day as things change here in the US. I worry about my son, living in the shadow of Russia. I worry about my daughter and the lessons this election has for women. I worry about my son, who is a part of the queer community. And I can’t help but feel sad about what is now at risk.
I apologize to Sandra for taking her happy photo and making it an icon for my angst. Things will get better. I’ll find a way to live in this new world and continue to shine my own light against the darkness.
Word count: 100
Changes
Weak sunlight filtered through the trees, illuminating the mosaic roof. It appeared from nowhere, an omen in this once tranquil village. Townspeople questioned what it signified.
The answer came in the form of an army marching into Lovisa the following morning. The battle was brief, and the message was clear. The west would not know peace – this new order meant change.
Watching from her attic window, Emilia wiped a tear away. The Finnish border had been breached before when she was a girl. As her granddaughter toddled into sight, her heart winced, knowing she could no longer guarantee her future.
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© Erin Leary
erinlearywrites 
Great story. Worry seems to be the order of the day. I am choosing to disobey it.
Thanks for reading – I’ll do my part as well!
Such a sad story, the past repeats it seems
Thanks for reading – yes, it does. I’ve spent some time reviewing the past few election cycles and agree that we have a pattern. It’s part of the process – my hope for this time is that we can get through it with minimal damage.
A sad story, a few of the stories this week reflecting your worries too. Here’s hoping it doesn’t come to this.
I echo your hope – and will do my own part to ensure that it does not. Thanks for reading!
Sometimes worry is good
Worry keeps you vigilant and vigilance leads to awareness and awareness leads to change. That can be enough.
We don’t see enough of you on Friday Fictioneers, Erin. Good one, and reflecting the thoughts of many of us right now.
Sandra! I have been in a writing funk lately – not making the time or taking the effort. I am going to have to snap out of it. I miss you guys!
I live in hope that one day the world will live in peace!
Well said, and well meant! Here’s to a better future.
Erin, I read your story yesterday, but held my comment until I could fully process it. I love that you share your deep concerns. It is my hope that we will be able to regroup before violence overtakes us. The reality is harsh, but I believe we can brave the days ahead together.
I agree – and will be doing my part, with all my heart.
Erin, it’s so good to see you here on FF; I’ve missed your stories and you! Your story reflects the concerns and fears, so many of us have right now. The delivery makes it that much more poetic. Beautiful!
Hi Dawn, I will make it my own personal mission to shed light and love wherever I am. This won’t bring me down – but it sure makes things harder. Hope you are well!
Amen!
A haunting story that was beautifully written. As for the election you are not alone in your concern but I have to believe that if we are vigilant love will truly trump hate.
Thanks for your comment – I agree, and have chosen to be active. I can do my part.
There HAS to be light at the end of the tunnel. There just has to be.
Keep a good thought for us here! It’s a strange time, indeed.
I can’t add much to what was already said. A poignant story, the danger is very real. I hope your son will be ok.
Thanks for reading. We’ll do our best to keep things on track.
At the end of the day, we all have children to worry about. I’ll put my faith in that. Thanks for reminding me.
Yes, they are what matters most. Thanks, Dawn.
Very ominous story, the world never learns and we can only hope things turn out OK
Thanks for reading – sorry for the delayed response! I also have hope – but more than hope, I have action and I’m planning to use that ability!