A Safe Haven In My Folk's Closet

[Steve Wayne]

I used to hide in my parent’s closet and count my father’s belts when I was a kid.

He owned ten belts of all types and my favorite was a thin one with several rodeo riders stamped on it, each riding a different bucking bronco. He had a thicker one that was black and had a large silver buckle that read “Chicago FDP” and had flames.

Even though he had nylon ones and leather ones and even an army camouflage one, he only used two belts from that closet. One was dark brown, pebbled leather and it had a single stretched and worn hole from keeping his pants up.

The other was the belt he used to beat me.

[Steve Wayne]

Thanks, all.  You got it, Lisa D.

[Lisa Dase]

Oh, and the irony that the closet is a safe haven yet harbors that weapon, love it!

[Lisa Dase]

I like how the first 5 are whimsical, and I my child self relates to them perfectly, and then the staccato 6th fulfills what the formers foreshadow. Good work, thanks for sharing!

[Steve Wayne]

Thanks, all.  I'm new to 6S, but enjoy it.  Each little story like a puzzle, to be twisted and massaged until the true essence comes out.  I can learn from you.  Steve Wayne

[Angela]

I was afraid that was where this post was headed.  You make a powerful statement, using an objective tone, that lends even more power to your words.  The way the child seems to find comfort in the closet makes for a statement that is stronger still.  Good job.

[Toby Tucker Hecht]

Since he never wore the "beating belt" I wonder what he was thinking when he bought it.  I would love to see a 6S from the father's point of view as he contemplated buying a belt he would never wear.  Good story.

[Diana E. Backhouse]

Ouch! Sounds as if you needed a safe haven from that last sentence.

[Irma Bozardt]

Sounds like you admired your father's collection of ties, but the one he used to beat you with was not part of the admiration.  I think some of us can find familiarity with "the belt".  Good 6s.  Irma