Ergo, the Ogre

A large, sprawling oak tree with thick branches covered in green moss, surrounded by lush greenery in a natural setting.

This week at Friday Fictioneers, Rochelle has chosen the above image by Na’ama Yehuda as our visual prompt. 100 words.

“Mommy, who’s that big lady over there?” The little girl pointed a chubby finger across the water.

“That’s the Statue of Liberty, Rachel,” her mother explained. “She represents the freedom and safety to be who we are.”

“No more hiding from the bad men?”

“That’s right, honey. No more hiding.” Mother’s smile was one of relief. “We’re almost home…America.”

“But what about Daddy, Zayde and Bubbe?” Rachel asked. “Will they be safe, too?”

“I pray they will be.” Mother’s eyes filled with tears and she bent to hug her daughter close. “I pray to G-d they got out in time.”

Moses Jacob Ezekiel 1876
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Ergo, the Ogre

Susan Marie Shuman is an author and freelance writer/editor who currently resides in the wilds of Birmingham, AL. She shares her life with two spoiled cats, several friends (not all of them imaginary) and one husband. When she’s not working, Susan enjoys horseback riding, reading, taking her cats for a spin in their pet stroller, and taking naps. An ex-bartender, recovering crash test dummy, and all-around late bloomer, Susan graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2004 with a BA in English. She minored in Russian. Long-range goals include visiting Israel, the Czech Republic and Liechtenstein. Susan is also planning to launch a micronation which would be called either Suzannistan or Eastern Suzanorovia.

24 responses to “Safe to Be”

  1. GHLearner Avatar
    GHLearner

    Very sad and movoing story, told by far too many. Let’s hope that their loved ones are safe, too, and that they aren’t rejected.

    Reply
  2. Tannille Avatar
    Tannille

    It’s a shame the world isn’t a nicer place, people shouldn’t have to flee.

    Reply
  3. Woman walking Max Avatar
    Woman walking Max

    A moving story. For immigrants it must have heart breaking, not knowing what has happened to your loved ones.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      It must have been. And then searching the faces on the street in hopes you’ll find a relative. Geez!

      Reply
  4. Nobbinmaug Avatar
    Nobbinmaug

    I hope it works out. Despite its promise, America isn’t always kind to refugees.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      True that!

      Reply
  5. michael Avatar
    michael

    A taste of freedom, but I hope they will all make it safely

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Oh, me too! Thank you Michael.

      Reply
  6. pennygadd51 Avatar
    pennygadd51

    A poignant story. I hope the other family members are okay.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Thank you, Penny!

      Reply
  7. Bear Avatar
    Bear

    I hear the depth in this one…. too many times to count, have I heard similar words from those who were able to escape from where they were… they were relieved to be out, but feared for loved ones still trapped. Great Story this week. Have a safe one!

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Thank you, Bear. Much appreciated!

      Reply
  8. rochellewisoff Avatar
    rochellewisoff

    Dear Susan,

    I see we chose similar immigrants. Although you don’t give us the time frame, I have a pretty good idea of from whence and when. Well done.

    Shalom,

    Rochelle

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Thank you, Rochelle. This immediately comes to mind with the Statue of Liberty.

      Reply
  9. Keith's Ramblings Avatar
    Keith’s Ramblings

    I can’t even imagine what that feels like, praying, waiting, wondering, worrying. An excellent take.

    My contribution!

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Thank you, Keith. I cannot imagine either, not completely, but it is something I think about nearly every day.

      Reply
  10. notestowomen Avatar
    notestowomen

    I hope the others are safe too and will join them. Great story.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Many thanks, notes!

      Reply
  11. plaridel Avatar
    plaridel

    i just hope the rest of the family make it.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      I like to think they do. Thank you, Plaridel!

      Reply
  12. Mason Bushell Avatar
    Mason Bushell

    An emotional story. I hope they all meet up and live well.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Thank you, Mason!

      Reply
  13. msjadeli Avatar
    msjadeli

    I hope their loved ones are safe.

    Reply
    1. The Abject Muse Avatar
      The Abject Muse

      Me too. I’m glad I only had 100 words to work with.

      Reply

Whatcha think?