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Topic: EERIE (07/28/16)
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TITLE: Carried | Previous Challenge Entry
By Melissa Doerksen
08/04/16 -
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The summer cottage we leased each year was wonderful; however, the trek from the launch to the cottage was intimidating. I purposely took this opportunity of arriving early to not only prepare for our upcoming gathering, but also to face my fears, once and for all. The kids described the walk as the ‘enchanted forest.’ It was interesting to say the least. Darkness settled instantly upon entering the forest, even in the light of day. The thick foliage enveloped one from all sides, and created a canopy which allowed a few strands of daylight to filter through occasionally.
It felt like another world. The path itself was a blend of stone and boardwalk, with interludes of lush greenery, sprinkled with blueberry patches. Moss-covered trees and logs were strewn about like a giant box of matches dropped open by an enormous hand. Of course, history of the island indicated explosions by miners, and a few storms over the years, which lent to the magical terrain of ravines and cliffs, and huge uprooted trees appearing as ghastly creatures silhouetted against dark walls of stone. Although up close, each skeleton finger root was draped in rich green velvety moss, as well.
The familiar sounds of chirping birds and chattering squirrels greeted her, as she placed her first step on the boardwalk. Securing her backpack, and inhaling a deep breath of courage, she ventured on her way! I can do this, I know I can!
The lull of the aluminum boat rocking gently against the dock, slowly faded behind her. Twenty feet in, she paused to allow her eyes to adjust to her dim surroundings.
She then strode on her way, using caution along dew-laden stones. She preferred a quickened pace; however, being alone was not the time to slip off the path with a sprained ankle!
She neared the halfway mark on her winding path, proud of her progress! No sooner had she become prideful, when there it was! Looming before her like an insurmountable wall of old, the eerie silence settled upon her. Why was it that she could no longer hear the cheerful chittering of the woodland creatures? Just deafening silence, and with each turn, a new and eerie form presenting itself!
Heart pounding, dry mouth, and fighting the urge to turn and run, or simply nestle into a familiar pit, she forged ahead with a strength not of her own.
A rustle of leaves above, and a branch snapping ahead had her full attention. Who or what could be walking with her? A distant howl crashed upon her senses! A wolf mid-day? Or a mournful cry of a wounded soul?
With mind frightfully racing out of control, and every nerve on its last edge, she felt herself bordering utter delirium!
Suddenly, she became acutely aware of the small Bible she had packed, and wore as a shield even now! What was wrong with her? Had she forgotten the Lord was holding and leading her?
She whispered for help, and immediately felt His Presence; a warm peace wrapped her securely, pressing out the relentless doubts threatening to paralyze her!
She moved toward the slivers of sunlight stretching down to her path. Rays of hope! She lunged ahead with confidence, knowing He had this, and held her firmly in His Hand!
How foolish she had been to try on her own! She could do nothing in her own strength!
With a burden lifted, and clear thoughts of her Savior carrying her, she nearly skipped into the Light. The path became clear, sunlight filtered through the dark atmosphere, and her heart became new.
A few more turns and she would arrive at the cottage. Four grouse scampered across her path, bringing a smile, as she was reminded of prior misgivings with snapping branches!
She made the last turn, welcoming the bright area and the quaint cabin. As she nearly bounced up the wooden steps, the large wind chime shifted in the breeze. She smiled again at the mournful cry heard earlier!
Sinking into the nearest wicker chair, gratitude and relief swept over her. She looked briefly to the trail just travelled, and saw a dazzling light, where previously only darkness lurked.
With God, I can do all things! The impossible becomes possible!
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I like the areas of descriptive narrations.