by Sarah Earlene Shere, ©2025
(May 11, 2025) — Eridessa gently caressed the space on the bench beside her. She could almost see the smile and hear the laughter of her childhood friend. It had been a year since Rose had passed on into eternal life. The loss was still keenly felt by her friend, along with all those who were left behind. This included Rose’s husband and her daughter. Eridessa smiled at the child as she ran past the bench, unaware of the woman’s presence. How much the little girl looked like her mother! Eridessa sat up straight, squared her shoulders and lifted her chin with determination. “I promise, Rose,” she quietly spoke aloud, “I will watch over Ella and protect her as if she were my own. I will see to it that she is always safe, that she always has a friend and reasons to hope and dream. Then, someday, I will see to it that the dreams that she wishes will come true.”