Walking along the road of life, Rebecca fell through the cracks. In the gloomy world below, she felt compelled to follow the darkened passageways that spiraled downward.
“I can do this,” she whispered numbly.
“No, you can’t,” the voices hissed.
She stumbled yet kept moving.
At long last, she declared, “I can do this!”
A tunnel leading upward lay before her. A light flickered at the end. Rebecca ascended. Reaching out her hands toward the light, she rose through the cracks. The sun kissed her face, and she sighed. Her time in the below was over. At least for now.
~~
This story is my contribution to “Friday Fictioneers,” a weekly challenge hosted by the lovely Rochelle Wisoff Fields. With the help of a photo prompt to inspire, we’re to write a 100-word story. The photo this week was provided by CE Ayr.
If you would like to join in with this encouraging group of writers or read their stories from this week, visit here.
Long may Rebecca continue her “I can do this” attitude!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The best attitude to have to overcome. Thank you for reading and commenting, Oneta!
LikeLike
I fell in love with this story at the first line, because – whoa that first line! The rest compares favorably to Plato’s the Cave to my mind. What a fascinating story/allegory you’ve given us here. Very well done.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like “whoa” and am very glad you enjoyed the story! Thank you so much, Anne, for the kind and thoughtful comments.
LikeLike
Lovely use of metaphor from the prompt, and a nice bit of hope – although the last sentence adds an ominous hint! Well done.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Guess I wanted to depict the constant struggle for some. Thanks so much, Iain, for reading and commenting. Stay safe!
LikeLiked by 1 person
the first step is always the hardest. she’s on her way.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is and she is! Thanks so much, Plaridel, for commenting!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The underworld sounds like a fascinating place. Very atmospheric and intriguing B!
LikeLiked by 1 person
When I first started writing the story, I thought of “Neverwhere” by Neil Gaiman. 🙂 But, then, I took another direction. Thanks so much for reading!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad she found her way out of the cracks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, she worked hard at it and found success. Thanks much for reading, Frank, and commenting! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love this, so much is conveyed in just a few words. It can be so easy to fall through those cracks and stay there because of those voices. Glad Rebecca found the strength to challenge them and climb out again!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad you liked the story. Many of us need to fight this fight from time to time. I think this is especially true during this time. Thank you so much for reading and commenting! I hope you are staying well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Brenda,
Lovely and metaphorical story. I love the way you used the sidewalk and not the string. 😉 Attitude does determine altitude, doesn’t it?
Shalom,
Rochelle
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like that, “attitude determines altitude.” Thank you, Rochelle, for taking time to read my story and for you kind comment. Be well!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is great, Brenda, and, as mentioned above, that first sentence is a nailer!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, CE, for your kind comments!
LikeLike
It takes strength of all kinds to get out once we’ve fallen through the cracks of life. I love what you did here, Brenda.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It certainly does take strength. I’m so glad you enjoyed the story, Dale!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I did!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely, uplifting story, Brenda.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Susan, truly! I’m glad you enjoyed.
LikeLike
I like the determination of spirit. This is 2020 for sure. Here’s to getting out again.
-David
LikeLiked by 1 person
Back at you! Sometimes it does take great determination, and, like you said, especially for 2020. Thank you for your comments!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh, those omnipresent internal voices. I don’t know if there is such a thing as fighting them off for good. I love the metaphorical use of the prompt.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think it’s a life long struggle, but we can grow stronger with each victory over those voices. I’m very glad you enjoyed the story. Thank you!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the inspiration and hope in this story!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad you enjoyed, Ann. Thanks so much for letting me know. It means a lot!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely story, and great first line. It’s the sort of first line that draws you in immediately.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, that’s encouraging. Thanks so much for letting me know, and I’m glad you enjoyed, Draliman! Hope you are well!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Vivid storytelling. You endeared me to the protagonist immediately.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad to hear that, very encouraging, Magarisa! Thank you for letting me know. Take care!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome!
LikeLike
I felt the mood, far to many fall though the cracks, if only more could climb back.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a nice compliment. I’m glad you felt the mood in the story. It is true, there are far to many and I fear it will be the case this season. Thanks for stopping by, Mike!
LikeLike
This is beautifully described. The imagery is so confronting. Her determination once the decision is made is gripping! Well done
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Laurie, your comments are very encouraging!
LikeLike
Perspective is the ruling force, I agree. It can get a person through anything. Glad she got back to the light.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It truly is. Determination, though difficult to hold on to during these times, is key! Thanks so much for stopping by!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re most welcome, Brenda 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great story about perseverance and determination, Brenda.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome 🙂
LikeLike