A Story of a Girl

A glimpse into the life of a girl.

Loud noises, raised voices; she sits in silence. No smiles, no laughter; she plays alone. Although she's too young to know, she still wonders. Inconsistency reigns and nothing makes sense. Why is she sad and happy? Why is afraid and strong? She yearns to decipher why Mom acts both ways. She hears one thing and sees another. Although so young, confusion reigns and nothing makes sense.

Once he's gone, Mom always seems happy. After he left, Mom always seems strong. While it makes no sense to the little girl, she simply accepts it and decides she wants Mom to always be happy. If he makes Mom sad, then he needs to stay away.

An adolescent mind sets its wheels turning. It seeks out every avenue leading to comprehension. No time for childhood, adulthood is close at hand. Adults can be easily mimicked, but not as swiftly fathomed. Maturity beckons and she diligently progresses. Ignoring childhood pleasures and blocking out childhood nightmares, she wants only to protect her Mom and her brother. Bitterness takes hold. He must stay away.

While Mom is busy, she is left with strangers. These people don't seem to care. Monotony of her schedule only further encourages her longing for adult wisdom. Go to school, go to daycare, go home; Mom is waiting. New men enter the picture. Confusion envelopes her simple life. Her questions go unanswered; her insecurities go unnoticed. Fear and imagination blur nightmares with reality. Bitterness consumes.

Unsure of how to cope and unaware of how to explain, she forgets. Choosing not to remember a thing, she finds solace in the clean slate she creates in her mind. Nothing is wrong. Everything is wonderful. Years pass; things change. A family forms and she is safe. What is real? What is contrived? She wishes she knew, but it has all been erased. All she knows is that bitterness reigns, trust alludes, but everything is wonderful.

Reviews

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i loved this short story
it draws clearly the image of how the impact of the mother and the men ruin her childhood's smile
She is innocent, but her life's obscure
Bravo!