Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Running Out of Options

“Failure...is not...an option!!” bellowed the drill sergeant, the straight bill of his cap tapping the recruit on the forehead.

Ironic, thought the newbie. His entire life until now had been a failure.

Failed to get the grades.
Failed to get the girl.
Failed to make his parents proud.

And now he’s told it’s no longer an option?

He stood rigid, naked except for his one-size-too-big skivvies, wide awake, the rising sun’s first rays peeking through the window, while his daddy for the next 13 weeks sprayed spittle in his face as he barked orders.

Failed to make the right decision?

— • — • —

My entry in the 100 Words Challenge, with the prompt, "failed."

8 comments:

  1. Nice. I bet this is the turn-around moment for this young fellow. He's about to learn he doesn't fail at everything.

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  2. My cousin is so desperate to join the army but my family is trying to keep her away from it. In a way, I think she's made for it.
    Great 100.

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  3. Ohhh this is brutal, well written, and I'm wondering if "he failed to make the right decision," too.

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  4. Great job. I especially like how the title fits the piece.

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  5. I bet a lot of guys have thoughts like that during their first meeting with a drill sergeant.

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  6. Thanks for all of the comments, fellow 100-Worders! Love this exercise, and really enjoy seeing so many different takes on a single word.

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  7. Nicely done. I sat up a bit straighter as I read this 100 words.

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