by Sarah Earlene Shere, ©2024
(Jul. 13, 2024) — Desmond silently latched the front door behind him before racing his bare feet off the dirt path and through the soft, dewy grass. The sky was just beginning to glow with anticipation of the rising sun. It would be a couple of hours yet before his family would awaken and get ready to start the day, and THIS was no ordinary day. Today was his twelfth birthday.
Desmond ran till he came to the edge of the woods, overlooking the valley. Here he scampered up his favorite tree and out onto a low-hanging limb. Having not been far behind, his faithful dog soon joined him by his side. Desmond placed an arm around his friend. “Today’s the day, Clipper. I get to choose. But what will it be?” Seemingly able to sense the weight of the world resting on the youth’s shoulders, the loyal friend stretched his neck to reach and cover the boy’s chin with kisses.
Even his playful pup could not bring laughter to Desmond just now. He had too many things on his mind, for it was on the twelfth birthday of every Glowerling that they had to decide what power to possess for the rest of their life. For eleven years Desmond had lived as an ordinary boy, watching the adults and older siblings in his family wielding their powers. Today he was allowed to try them all, but, at the hour before midnight, he must choose one.
Desmond was afraid. What if he chose the wrong one? What if he messed something up in practicing? What if he would never fit in with his ordinary friends? But, then he thought, what if he chose something that could change the world for the better? What if he could be a hero to the village? What if he could take care of his family? Noticing the sudden smile play across his face, Clipper stood up and began to whimper. Desmond lifted his hand and wiggled his fingers, sending sparks flying. Anticipating what Desmond was going to try first, Clipper barked and wagged his tail excitedly. Desmond pulled back his hand in preparation and smiled at his friend. “I know, I like this one too.”