Eye Of Beholder

Todd had always put others before himself, which had brought a sense of well-being and worth when he was young.

But the years and the takers had garnered their toll: the most recent family emergency leaving him stranded on an island of agoraphobia.

He’d just washed the dishes when the doorbell rang.

The wireless security camera bought online amid a bout of paranoia relayed the image of a stranger with a clipboard – practiced smile glued to his face.

Todd could just make out the logo of a phone company on the top sheet.

Another would-be taker.

Sunlight glinted off steak-knives.

From Guest Contributor Perry McDaid

My Darkest Colors

At night my darkest colors show. Sometimes I grow weary, afraid you can't stand the glow.

Darkness comes in many different shades. From fear, paranoia, self doubt and anxiety, the lightness from me fades.

Just as self realization kicks in, and I ponder how much more can I take? A warm calm from light comes through, and my heart begins to wake.

As the light and magnitude begins to grow, the spectrum of colors from light to dark begins to glow.

I begin understanding now, so diverse and ubiquitous, and limited was my vision before. Forgive me I never knew.

From Guest Contributor Crystal Bauer Feldman