Microfiction: Man and His Bow

 

Bow

Man and His Bow

    Five weeks ago, Moran had decided he wanted to become an amateur bowman. Every day he would come out to the calm beach and shot arrows at a nearby tree. Most days he had to stand within 25 feet to hit the tree, but some days he would stand at distances ranging from 50-100 feet and hit the tree or near it. Those were his good days. To prove how far he had come, Moran put up a target that he wanted to hit from 75 yards.

    Three weeks later, and he finally hit the bullseye and he joyfully celebrated. 

Author's Note
    This story is inspired by Joukahainen's Revenge (cont.). In the story, Joukahainen is a young man striving to get revenge against an adversary. He plots to kill his adversary by shooting him with a crossbow. At the end of the story, he does successfully shoot him with the crossbow. 
    I take inspiration from the weapon and the setting as Joukahainen is near the ocean. I also take some inspiration from his youth even though Moran is an adult rather than a young man. This story is about Moran wanting to learn a new talent, and through consistency and hard work, he learns it to the level he desires. The message is that consistency and perseverance, are two key factors of learning. 

Bibliography
Joukahainen's Revenge (cont.) by Elias Lönnrot, translated by W. F. Kirby (1907).

Walk for Peace

    A young man walks through the trees seeking peace from the voices of the world. A tree notices his dismay and bends down to comfort the young man. 
"Do not be discouraged young one, for I have lived for many more years than you, and I have learned that worrying adds no more to the day than what it takes away." 

Author's Note
    This story is about me last week when I took a walk to clear my mind and emotions and I felt being outside comforting. Connecting with nature helps me to remember the small things and be calm.