This post is in response to Rochelle Wisoff-Fields Friday Fictioneers.
The rules are below:
My story follows the picture prompt below:
They told me this day would come but I never believed them. Unknowing to my doctors that arch I will pass under is a grim reminder of why I came here in the first place. I was trying to make it under a similar arch when the IED went off. I remember trying to make it but my legs would not obey. Looking down I could see why. They were not there.
So today I leave this hospital under my own power. They are not my real legs but they will help me march toward my future.
Oh Danny Boy! 
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Thank you for sharing.
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Such hope and determination seeps into this story and through to the reader.
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It was my intent. Thanks!
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A true hero displayed so completely in so few words!
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Appreciate your comment!
DJ
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Dear Danny,
A fitting tribute to our servicemen who’ve made so many sacrifices. You captured his sense of loss and hope in a few words that left a lump in my throat. I want to salute him as he passes under the arch.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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You and me too!
DJ
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Although it is a very quiet piece, at the same time it is very powerful and overwhelming.
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Thanks for your uplifting comment.
DJ
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A great story of loss and recovery, ending in hope as he leaves to face the future.
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Appreciate your comment!
DJ
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What a sad/happy reminder. The first arch took his legs , the second has given them back – in a way. You know what I mean. Nicely done.
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Yes, I know what you mean and thanks for commenting.
DJ
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Good story that carries a lot of hope with it. We owe a lot of gratitude to those who’ve served, and those who are presently serving, in the military. Well written. —Susan
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Totally agree! Thanks for commenting.
DJ
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What a great story about overcoming obstacles. Tragedies happen, but what’s important is how we respond to them. I have a friend who lost his leg in Afghanistan, but he has touched thousands with his motivation to keep going and through the amazing things he does for fellow injured soldiers. Thank you for this great read and the reminder to appreciate those who have served.
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Thanks for the thoughtful comment. Tragedies both physical and mental. The mental ones are on a par with the physical ones I believe. They both need treatment.
DJ
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I think I would like your friend. Thanks!
DJ
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A sad story well told. Losing and regaining of independence perfectly captured. One tiny typo: ‘but I my legs would not obey’ – remove that rogue ‘I’
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Darn nab it. Thanks for the catch and comment.
DJ
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A story of both loss and fortitude. Read it twice.
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Thanks for the very understanding comment.
DJ
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I’m sure there are a lot of military vets who would feel the same way — and have hope as well. Nice work!
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Thank You!
DJ
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Very apropos so near Memorial Day. Good.
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Glad you enjoyed. Come back again.
DJ
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You capture the instant of loss well.
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Mission accomplished. Thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed!
DJ
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