The Last Cradle
Jed makes beautiful cradles for his grandchildren. This will be the last.
Jed had built a new cradle for each of his children and then for his grandchildren. He had created every one of them after meeting the baby for whom it was intended. He maintained the cradle had to suit the child. Today he lovingly waxed and polished his crowning achievement. This cradle far outshone any that had gone before. His great-granddaughter would rest in it.
“Gramps, there are no words.” Tears shone in Aaron’s eyes as he took in the masterpiece. “It’s perfect.”
Swallowing down the tightness in his own throat, Jed continued caressing the wood with his polishing cloth. He paused, looking up at his grandson. “No man should live to see his great-grandchild laid to rest. Skylar’s cradle is the last I’ll make.”
This is a sad story, yet joyous at the same time, as Jed gives this final gift to his great-grandchild. It grew from a title prompt. (Another BMAC story) Please leave a comment and don’t forget to share Eclectic Ink with your social media networks (or forward the email to a friend you think might enjoy my stories).
A very short story, but very powerful and touching.