Today we’re pleased to announce Dick Waters as the winner of the Indies Unlimited weekly Flash Fiction competition.
The winning entry is rewarded with a special feature here today and a place in our collection of winners which will be published as an e-book at year end.
Congratulations to Dick, and thanks to everyone who participated – excellent entries! Now, without further ado, here’s the winning entry:
Silent EchoesI came here as a kid. Then I brought you here for years. Now, as I look at the remnants of the carnival gates, I wish I could hear your laughter once more.
Maybe I should have brought you up differently…but I didn’t. You were the ‘All-American’ kid. Everyone loved you.
Sitting on this cold and rusty bench, looking at the façade, I wish I could hear your laughter just once more. I couldn’t hold my emotions back any longer and people were starting to stare…I don’t care anymore…I miss you with all my heart.
This is where we had words that day.
I wonder what you would be like if I had brought you up differently. But, no such luck. I can’t hate myself for bringing you up right, but I miss you so much.
I tried to reason with you that fateful day, but you learned your lessons well, and echoed my words back at me. ‘I need to do what’s right; I owe it to myself, my country, to God, but most of all, to you.’
Oh, how I wish I said things differently.
You joined the Marines. ‘Nothing less for you.’ You went to that hell hole and you made a difference. You saved your buddies. You’re a hero.
So, why do I feel so bad? I listened, straining to hear even the echo of your laughter.
Why did I come here? I really wish I could hear you, and your son laughing.
Congratulations Rick !!!!
Take care and God Bless,
Jan
Great story – tugs at the heart.
Congrats, Dick! Great entry as always. I’m still amazed at how much emotion was fit into so few words. Expertly crafted.
Thank you very much to all of you and the others I’ve heard from.
There are many excellent entries each week and I enjoy reading each of them.
I know I put more effort into my entry knowing the quality of the competition. There are many entries each week that could have won if the votes were there.
Keep it up and maybe someone will see all of us!
Have a safe holiday weekend and enjoy your family time.
The images are still unfolding. This is what a short short story is all about. Just lovely.
Thank you very much indeed.