 |
| Ocean floor |
Emma had retreated to the basement of her mind as years passed and words came less and less.
A gentile in a kind Mormon rest home, Emma heard the
nurses as they changed shifts and discussed patients, as if they were inanimate
objects. “Her extremities are more spastic” and “Exhibits increasing
imbecility daily” were the diagnoses and observations expressed.
Rage and anger filled Emma’s mind, but words could not
break the barrier the stroke had given her.
A new orderly, Kevin was hired for the night shift and was
assigned to Emma’s care. His kindness
was a gift. Kevin spoke to her with gentleness, a relief after her silence had muted her voice.
One late, late night night, Kevin softly entered Emma’s
room and awoke her. “Emma, you know you
have fulfilled your life’s
purpose. Now,” he covered her mouth and
nostrils with his big hands. “Let’s go swimming in a cool ocean. Take a
deep breath, and dive to the bottom.”
Emma’s mind grew darker and darker as she reached the
ocean’s floor. “How lovely!” were her last
thoughts.
These italicized and underlined words are provided by Delores from Under the Porch Light. Each Wednesday, Delores provides six daunting words for any who wishes to participate in this writing challenge. Please visit her site by clicking on the shivering cardinals in the sidebar; you will find other writers who have taken different slants on these words!
