A Warning From the Past

April 18, 2026

by Maida

1 min read

Story Premise 1 min read (146 words)

"After my grandfather died, I started a habit he always warned me about. I would sit on the old porch swing and light a match. But as soon as the flame touched the paper, the match would often go out, as if a sudden breath had blown it. My grandfather despised this habit. He said […]"

After my grandfather died, I started a habit he always warned me about. I would sit on the old porch swing and light a match. But as soon as the flame touched the paper, the match would often go out, as if a sudden breath had blown it.

My grandfather despised this habit. He said it was a waste of life. Now, when I try to light one, the unlit stick will sometimes fly from my fingers and land in the grass. It feels like a firm, gentle hand is taking it from me.

I do not know if it is my mind playing tricks, or something more. I miss them both, but I will not use a spirit board to find out. I had a bad experience with one years ago that I still remember.

Maybe the message is simple, and I should just listen.

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