
A Red Feather
Everybody ages, it’s a fact of life. But it appears that I’ve now become invisible. Walking around my local shops, not one person bothered to catch my eye or give me even a hint of a smile. And the shop assistant that served me barely acknowledged my existence.
I realise the years have taken their toll. My face is more lined, the wrinkles deeper and my auburn hair no longer so vibrant. But inside, I’m still the girl I once was.
Several people pushed past me as I continued to window shop, almost as if I wasn’t there. Is this what happens when you grow old? You disappear into the background.
How different my life used to be… when I trod the boards…
***
I can still remember that first review.
‘The West End opens its arms and welcomes a gifted young actress, Miss Annabelle Evans, who last night lit up the London stage. The depth of her performance eclipsed only by her talent for dancing.’
What wonderful years they were, those that followed. But a dancer’s career is limited. Muscles and ligaments become overstretched and the body tires. As did mine. That was when the telephone stopped ringing and the parts dried up.
***
It was at that moment I caught sight of my reflection in the shop window. Time seemed to stand still as tears sprang to my eyes. Was that dowdy figure in the charcoal grey coat and woolen hat really me? Had I made myself invisible?
It was several weeks before I ventured out again, but this time with a definite spring in my step. Heads turned in my direction and strangers smiled as I passed. A shop assistant, while ringing up my purchases, made small talk.
Back home, I carefully removed my forest green hat and ran my finger over the bright red feather that adorned it. A souvenir from my days on the stage. It was just one small step but what a difference it had made. Just wait until I really get going, I laughed to myself. And I gave a little twirl!
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleFantastic story and fantastic picture, Linda. One of your best! I’m so glad I read this before I retired to my woman-cave (writing sanctuary) for the evening. The story I had in my head was about a woman who bought a hat that changed her life! Great minds, thinking alike. You did it better than I could have. Now I need to get a red feather for myself! By the way, do… Read more »
Julie, your words are too kind and you should definitely write that story, I’m sure it will be amazing. People do wear hats but nothing like those of yesteryear. Baseball caps or bucket hats in the summer and fur or woolly hats in winter. My favourite hat is a cloche which I wore as part of my ‘going away’ outfit on my wedding day. It was bright yellow. Thank you for such… Read more »
This is a lovely story, Linda. Sometimes it takes the smallest of things to put a spring in our step once more. During the lockdowns I got pretty down on myself but one day I made the effort and put a colorful shirt on, it made the world of difference! Miss Annabelle seems like a lovely lady, and I can almost picture her hat! I love the photo!
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleThanks so much Melissa. Colour can have such a huge influence on the way we feel. I love a little black dress but the colour red is so much more exciting! Keep wearing that colourful shirt!
Life should always be vibrant and it is up to us to make it so. Really liked the concept. Nice story.
I totally agree Piyali. Thanks very much for commenting.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleI smiled broadly at your story, Linda. It is so beautifully written. I was imagining Miss Annabelle and her hat with a bright red feather. It was picture-perfect.
I’m so glad my story put a smile on your face Lotchie. Thank you for your lovely comment.
You’re most welcome, Linda.
Comments without a personalized avatar will not be published.
To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleThis is a beautiful story, Linda. At first I felt sorry for Miss Annabelle, thinking how often we do that to ourselves, making ourselves invisible to the outside world and how lonely our elderly people could be sometimes. When I got to the part about the red feather in her hat though, I had a big smile on my face. I am glad she got up and decided to make a change.… Read more »
No one should be made to think they’re invisible, I’m glad that message came through Marianna. Your comments are always appreciated, thank you.