Hibernation
(I was 12 when my twin left me, and I became street-smart at the tender age of thirteen.)
I was asleep for many moons, but then one day awakened to the dawn and a rumbling belly.
Here I am, right where you should be. But you up and died. Not that it was your fault, but you still left me here. Alone. To deal with this. So I hid – buried myself in stories and lies. Until I realized your short story was braver than mine.
I often wondered why you left me. I wasn’t strong, like you.
But then I remembered your name.
A strong name. A strong voice. But not strong enough to exist in the cold.
I lay down to sleep in the dark, until a fresh breeze started poking me. Was that you? You used to tickle me to greet the day, where we could share a smile in the dawn.
But then there were no more smiles; no more tickles; no more shared sunrises. Just me and the silence. So I left. I found a comfortable niche and curled up under my comfy blanket to sleep for a while. Eventually, the sunlight kept poking my eyelids.
And so I emerged as my muscles began to quiver – ravenous for truth and freedom.
I burst forth from my shadowed comfort with a ragged scream. My voice seemed so foreign. I don’t think I’ve ever heard it sound so strong. So powerful. So confident. Is that you, my brother?
I shivered. Still alone. It was only me, and I had something to say.
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Thank you for reading!
About the Creator
KJ Aartila
A writer of words in northern WI with a small family and a large menagerie.
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Comments (7)
Oo very vibey indeed. I love the idea that the thing your character has to say is… “thank you for reading!” lol. But actually, I would very much like to know what they have to say. Great job 💕
Such a beautifully written piece. You have such a delicate touch with words
This is magical writing my friend. Your last line really punched hard. Well done!
Wow! This felt extremely spiritual! Powerful!
Incredibly evocative on so many levels, KJ.
That was wonderful. Love the power in the ending.
Powerfully written!