We are so very tired. Half a world we’ve walked, through snow, rain, and baking sun. And everywhere they say, go back. The unwanted—that’s what we are.
The border post looms ahead. There are men there with dogs—hard men with grim faces. Even at this time of year, when they’re celebrating the birth of a baby to a refugee couple. Bells toll and sirens blare.
Am I not a person too? But of course I am not. I am just a problem, without face or history. And there is nobody to part the Red Sea for us.
.
Friday fictioneers is a weekly challenge set by Rochelle Wisoff Fields to write a 100-word story in response to a photo prompt. You can find other stories here
Neil MacDonald Author 
Dear Neil,
A problem, not a person? Well put. Poignant piece.
Shalom and Happy New Year,
Rochelle
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Rochelle
LikeLike
An all too familiar story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. Sandra
LikeLike
A tale heard round the world. perfect timing on this one, Neil.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Problems have feeling too. Nice one, Neil.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Neil, the shack does look like something that would be at a border crossing. It does seem that Jesus’ message and the rhetoric of organized religion are polar opposites.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought border crossing as soon as I saw the picture
LikeLiked by 1 person
A continuous human plight, long before biblical times, and still it continues today.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely
LikeLike
Nicely done. A fitting time of year to ask where has the compassion gone
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Laurie
LikeLiked by 1 person
very nicely written…Have a great 2026 ahead!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Nandini
LikeLike
Well said, Neil.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Russell
LikeLike
This is deep, Neil, and your last line is brilliant.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Nancy
LikeLiked by 1 person