PHOTO PROMPT © Sandra Crook
“I feel sad.” said Afshan.
Aabid knew, but encouraged his daughter to talk, “Oh, why do you feel sad?”
He flung a piece of rubble the size of a football to the side. His arms trembled. The bombs struck in darkness. That was two weeks and three burials ago. Memories of his wife and two children clutched at his heart.
“Everything is gone. Ruined.” Such big words for a little girl, he thought sadly.
“Yes.” Grief threatened him as he was violently confronted by the ruins of his former life. “All we can do is look ahead. Start over.”
99 words
Written for Friday Fictioneers where the challenge is to write a story in 100 words or less. Hosted by leading flash fictioneer, Rochelle.
Thanks to Sandra Cook for providing this week’s photo prompt.
Things can change so quickly in life. Enjoy the present moment, and surrender to whatever it holds for you. A good attitude goes a long way. I tried to depict this in this week’s flash fiction, with Aabid surrendering to his loss and still looking ahead to whatever Life brings his way. I struggled with the title on this one.. The Aftermath was the best that came to mind…
Click the frog to read more awesome flash fiction!
Fatima Fakier 
All we can do … yes!
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Thank you, Neil.
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That made me sad too, but I also felt admiration for that father and how he is coping to look after his last remaining child. Powerful writing – well done.
Susan A Eames at
Travel, Fiction and Photos
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Thank you, Susan.
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“two weeks and three burials ago,” – so much anguish in that time-frame. Well done.
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Thank you, Sandra. The limited word count does wonders for cooking up these phrases.
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Unfortunately this is reality in some parts of the globe.
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Sad, but true. I wonder if they cope as well as this dad though? Hard to believe.
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I am sure there are all kinds. Some cope well and others succumb. Often they are in news.
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Great story of loss , acceptance and courage. I really liked your notes too, great message, indeed. ‘The aftermath’ fits really well here.
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Definitely a courageous father! I’m pleased you connected with the message too. Thank you, Moon.
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The harsh reality of living in a war-torn area. Kudos to the father to teaching the daughter that life must go on.
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Yes, I think he handled it pretty well given the devastation. He’s definitely an attentive and encouraging dad. Thank you, Dale.
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You tell that story very well, Fatima. I like the way you have the daughter articulate the reasons for her sadness.
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Thank you, Penny 🙂
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I’m amazed he can look anywhere beyond the wreckage. Powerful story.
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Maybe a tad bit unrealistic 😉 that’s fiction for you. I’m glad you found it moving and powerful, Iain. Thank you!
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Dear Fatima,
I suspect he’s being optimistic, at least on the outside, for the sake of his young daughter. A heartbreaking story, well done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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That’s how I see it too. Parents try to lead the way. Thank you, Rochelle 😊
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A sad story but a reality for so many. With all that he has been through, he remains strong and courageous for his daughter. Very well done.
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It is a sad truth of our world. Thank you for your affirmation of my story, Amie.
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