Abstract and Concrete Word Practice

 
     The mine cart trailed against the rickety rails, a terrible creaking noise screeching into the ears of every passenger. Shivers ran down the people's spines as they continued down the dark tunnel, a blue glow lighting their only path. Fear could be seen on everyone's face, eyes squinting toward the endless void, hands reaching out to whatever help would come, and mouths opening to emit high-pitched screams. The ride was completely terrifying from the looks of everyone's eyes as tears streamed down their faces, and it has yet to end.

     Grandma stared at the weapon in her hands. A gun made out of metal that looks as if it has been manufactured and polished to a shine recently. A single bullet loaded, giving her one shot for one decision. Time ticked away on the clock, every passing second meaning she had less time to choose what to hit. Her husband sat next to her, both arms stretched out on the recliner, his eyes staring at the  deadly contraption in her hands. Grandma inhaled and closed her eyes for a moment, then laughed. She lifted the gun eye level, pointed away from her face. The last thing she said was goodbye, and she pulled the trigger.



     I had just returned from my station in California. I felt tired all over, bags under my eyes, my arms numb from carrying my bags, and my legs wobbly from so much walking. I was glad to be home, a smile forming on my wrinkled face. At the window was my daughter, face pressed against the cold glass as she suddenly pulled away from it and opened her mouth widely, saying what I assumed was that I was home. At once the whole family barged out the door, both of my children running in a blur while my wife walked out with tears streaming down her face. Everyone's eyes glinted with a shine, feeling so happy that I have returned. I was glad too, feeling the same liquid form on my eyes. I bent one knee down and spread out my arms, one of my kids leaping into my chest. My other kid hopped on my back, and I held her with one arm while I held my other kid with the other. My wife stood over me, smiling ear to ear. They were as happy as I was that I was home, arms embraced in a family hug.