There are many shades of love - romance between a man and a woman, brotherly love for a sister, adoration of a mother and father for a child, the bond between a toddler and doting puppy. It is a known fact that people do many things they normally wouldn’t in the name of love. What would you be willing to do for love?

It’s a beautiful day along the river, sunshine glistening across the water. A grandfather sits to rest on a park bench near the edge of the pier, his two-year-old grandson’s stroller nearby. He smiles at the child he adores and is rewarded with the gift a childish squeal of joy. Beautiful memories are being created.

Suddenly, a huge gust of wind twists and swirls. Without warning, the stroller skitters forward and teeters at the edge. The older man rushes forward, grabbing for his grandson but misses. The man, who does not know how to swim well, watches in horror as the toddler disappears over the edge. Water splashes into the air as the small boy disappears below the surface…

This story is heart wrenching, an unimaginable occurrence. As a writer, I challenge you to enter the heart and soul of this grandfather. Using your five senses, close your eyes and step into this man’s shoes. Enter his world at the point where the sun is shining and life is filled with promise. Then feel the shock, disbelief, and horror when the dark cloud of disaster settles over him. Use the five senses (see, hear, feel, taste, smell) to describe your internal and external reactions to the situation, then go even deeper into his emotions.

(Note: The above is based on a true story that occurred this weekend in Chicago and can be found here (Complete Story). My heart and prayers are with this family. May their bond of love keep them strong.)