“Mama, I’ve been reading some of your flash fiction. Why are they all such downers?”
“Well, flash fiction by definition is a short story and it requires an arc with a problem and a resolution; something with an adrenalin rush to keep the reader’s interest.”
“But I want to read short happy stories; maybe about puppies. I’m going to wish for that on the next falling star I see.”
“That would be an admirable wish honey.” I turned away from my ten year old with tears forming, wishing she could stay that innocent for the rest of her life.
December 28: Flash Fiction Challenge
My entry to the Carrot Ranch Literary Flash Fiction for Dec. 28, 2017 using “wishing star.”
Sue Spitulnik 
12/31/2017 at 08:55
I love this, Susan, a great response to the prompt.
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12/31/2017 at 14:14
Thanks Robbie.
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01/03/2018 at 20:58
I enjoyed where the prompt took you, Susan. It’s a struggle for parents — to confront the modern world and protect young minds from it, too.
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01/04/2018 at 09:23
So true Charli. I worry for my grandchildren in the current craziness of the world in general.
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01/07/2018 at 01:06
It does feel like a scary time for contemplating what kind of world this will be for our next generations. You can add to the future with what you write — showing strong values even in dark stories.
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