Daily Archives: April 20, 2011

The following is in response to Velvet Verbosity’s 100 Word Challenge: Distance.
—————————————————

One Mississippi, two Mississippi, three Mississippi

Boom!

One Mississippi, two Mississippi, three

Boom!

Sally and David huddled closer together as the Booms came.

“I’m afraid, Sally.”

“Shh, it’s going to be okay, David. I’m here. Just hold my hand and help me count. It’ll be all over soon.”

One Mississippi, two Missi-

“Sally! Please make it stop.”

David and Sally huddled deeper into the closet. Sally knew if they could wait, the distance between booms would get closer and it would soon be over. Mommy’s boyfriend would get tired of hitting her leaving them all in peace.

One Mississippi, two
—————————————————

Tonight I attended a Candlelight Vigil honoring those who have been affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. I lit a candle in memory and honor of my mother who was a victim. April is also her birth month and she would have been 93 years old. I write this piece in her memory – and in the memory of my sister who huddled with me each time our father chose to batter our mother. Time is a great healer and understanding is a great distance breaker.
—————————————————