Member-only story
Short Story
A Walk in the Park
Stepping back into the shoes of a child
Mother and father are so tall. I’m so small by comparison. I wish they’d lift me to their level. Of course, she says no again. How can your arms be tired if you haven’t been using them? That’s just a lie. I hate that she does that. Let me not show that I’m upset though. At least we’re at the park. I love it here. Let me enjoy this.
I think I’ll run. Woah, I’m cutting through the air so quickly as I speed along. That whooshing sound! I must be moving so quickly right now, but I can go even faster.
Let me stop to catch my breath. I can feel my exertion in my sides. I wonder if they saw how fast I’ve gotten. I hope they did. Oh, they’re talking, but at least now father has noticed me. His smile is warming and his congratulatory wave inviting — I think I’ll run back to him.
I won’t stop when I get close and instead just run into him. That’s how fast I’m running and, plus, he’ll catch me with a hug. Ahh, he’s also tickled me. It’s fun but overstimulating. I’m glad he released me quickly.
Mom is still absorbed in talking about some other topic, and father is listening to her now. Well, I have no concern over what it is they’re going on about. Let me go look around. Should I head to the playground? No, I…
