Just like everyone else, I too have been going through a slightly stressful Quarantine. My routine- uncertain, work-life slowed down, social life – almost none, and the air I breathe mostly air-conditioned.

In such times, the internet and some writing materials feels like a blessing.

A friend of mine messaged me during the beginning of April 2020, saying, “April is known as the poetry month. Let’s get together virtually on zoom and write poetry together!”

So we met on zoom and collaborated together to create a poem or two and really enjoyed the whole process. I felt inspired and felt a newfound purpose emerge for myself to make use of my Quarantine stress release productively. I started to feel more positive and productive as I began writing a couple of poems and stories. I would love to make use of the elephant journal platform to share one of my short stories with you all.

Steeping

Floating away while still holding on to the edges on top of the water… 
Thinking, it would drown if it let go.
What it didn’t know is, otherwise.

“Let go”, calmly said the warm water.
“No!” it said.
“Let go & you shall be free”, tried the water again.
“No! I will drown!!” it cried.

“Shut up! Let go! And I will take care of you”, tried the water again.
Hearing this, it closed its eyes, took a deep breath, and let go.

As it let go, it found itself to be inside the water and floating at the same time.

For the first time, it found itself to feel the taste of freedom.
Taste of what freedom truly feels like… no fear, just peace.

The freer it felt, the more fragrant it felt.
Yet, to its relief, it hadn’t drowned.

“Thank you brother”, it said to the water, “…for helping me face my fears, taking care of me, and teaching me a valuable lesson of faith…”

I hope you enjoyed the short story. My intention to share this post comes with the hope that anyone who reads this feels inspired to find their own outlet of expression that is freeing, productive, and feels good at the same time.
Some of my avenues of expression are – short story writing, poetry, art, movement, and baking.

Comment below. What are some of your avenues of expression, and what are your interpretation of the short story above?

Looking forward to hearing from you.
Stay safe and well.