I wake feeling groggy, my head pounding and my mouth dry. I didn't sleep well last night.
Today is a heartbreaking anniversary. On this day, five years ago, I held my father's hand as he slipped quietly from this world. A day that shattered my fragile heart.
I wearily climb from my bed, pick up my phone and open a new email, typing in the email address [email protected].
Hello father,
Well another year has passed here on earth and yet it feels like only yesterday that I said goodbye to you.
Your grandchildren talk about you every day. Do you know how many times we've laughed at the memories of you dressed as a clown for their fourth birthday party? Or, how many times we have cried as we all remember when you surprised us with a much needed new car at Christmas?
We miss you terribly and yet as much as I dread this day every year, I love that I have this small window of time in which to talk to you - these few hours with you soothes my aching heart.
Your loving daughter.
Within seconds my email pings with a new message. A loving message from the past.
Thanks Dad, same time, same space next year. Arrivederci.
About the Creator
Colleen Millsteed
My first love is poetry — it’s like a desperate need to write, to free up space in my mind, to escape the constant noise in my head. Most of the time the poems write themselves — I’m just the conduit holding the metaphorical pen.
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Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
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Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
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Writing reflected the title & theme
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Comments (7)
I loved this. The world and space you created in such a limited amount of words was just so beautiful and touching. I can see this easily being made into a series or a movie. Excellent <3
This is no such word for it but we do talk to our past away love one . I really hope this wins. Very creative , Colleen 😍😍😍😍😍😍
Omgggg, if this really exists, I would love to send emails to my cat! At the risk of sounding dumb, may I know what is arrivederci?
Impressive!!! Love it!!!
☺️👏👏 Such a great idea for the micro and chosen word Colleen! Is this website a real medium type thing or is the whole scenario imagined ? Regardless. I loved this. Made me think of Stephen king and also Mr Harrigan’s phone.
Prayers for all those who are missing loved ones, & for those moments of wistful clarity when we know they are near.
Oh my. Wouldn't that be nice? Great job on this one.