A New Life
50 Word Story | Fiction | Veterans
Randy stared at the cocoon hanging from the tree limb. He watched the butterfly struggle for hours, then emerge, wet but beautiful.
Why did I survive?
He pressed the contact on his phone.
“Veterans New Hope Center. How can I help you?”
“Hi, my name is Randy. I have PTSD.”
© Copyright 2020—Present, Jenise Cook, All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
First Published: 10 January 2020, The Friday Fix (RIP) on Medium.com
Image Credit: GLady on Pixabay.com
About this Story
The story prompt word was “hope”, something many of us look forward to in the new year. It’s my hope that you’ll share this tiny story with those who could be helped by its message.
Our town has a Veterans Administration hospital. The statistics are that 22 veterans in the United States commit suicide on a daily basis.
22.
On. A. Daily. Basis.
Think about that for a moment. When we truly consider that number, it rips our hearts into pieces.
As I worked on the draft of my story, the image of a butterfly slowly emerging from its cocoon came to mind. After The Friday Fix published my tiny story, I sent the link via private message to a young veteran we know. He liked the story, and it gave me an opportunity to let him know that we see his progress in his college studies, his efforts to be the best husband and dad he can be. I took time to encourage him, and he appreciated it.
Please. Would you do the same? If you don’t know a veteran, please ask around among your friends and family. If you think it might help, feel free to share this tiny story with that veteran (or several veterans).
Thank you so very much!
Your Turn
Feel free to leave a Comment.
I appreciate you reading Jenise Cook’s Creative Journey. Subscribe for free to receive new posts in your email Inbox or Substack app.
Bittersweet stats, eloquent story. Thanks for the reality check.
There is a Vietnam Vet, Dave Roever, who has been sharing his incredible story and working with vets since the 70's. His ministry, Eagles Summit Ranch, (in Colorado and Texas), help families with PTSD. Thank you for shining a light on the struggles of these men and women.