WINNER, SIDERIUS CLASSIC FLASH FICTION AWARD, 2023
Tradition
They had a tradition in their family of striking children when they misbehaved. In time, the children fell in line, but their spirits were broken.
They had a tradition in their religion of only male leaders. Women served in lesser roles. Eventually, though, women abandoned the faith and led elsewhere.
They had a tradition in their country of gun rights. While most gun owners were responsible, some used their guns to kill people, even children.
Psyches were shattered, churches were diminished and lambs were slaughtered. But longstanding traditions were upheld, and that was the most important thing.
They had a tradition in their religion of only male leaders. Women served in lesser roles. Eventually, though, women abandoned the faith and led elsewhere.
They had a tradition in their country of gun rights. While most gun owners were responsible, some used their guns to kill people, even children.
Psyches were shattered, churches were diminished and lambs were slaughtered. But longstanding traditions were upheld, and that was the most important thing.
