Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
??? -
"Whew! I'm getting old," I chuckle dearly to myself as I tiredly sit on a bench in the middle of the park. Well, I wasn't that old. Just in my mid-50's! I think I should sign up for the "Looking Old, Feeling Young" magazine.
I observe the environment, seeing children chasing each other, owners playing with their dogs, families getting ice cream. It was so peaceful. I just wish that this peacefulness was back at my hometown. Nothing but hopelessness there.
But I shouldn't let terrible thoughts overwhelm me. Today was a very special day! I can't let my doubts keep me from smiling!
Once I regain my energy, I slowly get up from the bench and making my way over to the duck pond. I look down, seeing a mother duck, guiding her six ducklings. What a happy, healthy family. I wish my family was as joyous as the ducks were.
I sigh and move on from the pond. I look up, seeing an adult woman in a wheelchair, following a man. The wheelchair triggered a memory. An unpleasant one.
I slowly place my hand on the side of my stomach, feeling the deep scar. I shake my head, pushing away the thought and the pain.
I then face left, seeing a boy hold out a hand to a girl with a bleeding knee. It triggered another memory. It made me remember the day I was attacked. And of the man who saved my life.
What am I doing? I thought I wasn't supposed to think of bad thoughts! I scold myself in my head. I find another bench and sit down, shutting my eyes in peace.
My heart started to flutter with excitement. He's close. I know he is.
"I'll always be by your side," I whisper, letting my words blow away with the delicate wind. "Always."
I let a smile form on my lips. The state of peace came back around me.
I promised myself that I will not think of negative thoughts.