“The Problem With Prophecies”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Prompt: “No one can figure out your worth but you.” — Pearl Bailey

Prophecies are useless. I can’t tell you how many prophecies I’ve seen come and go. Not one of them came true.

I guess there is that assumption that prophecies are confusing and often are the furthest thing from straightforward. I can say with complete honest that that assumption is valid, since prophecies tend to lead you on twisted, confusing paths that usually end in death.

Of course, some people may say, “Then their deaths must have been prophesized! They were meant to die!”

Well, no, not quite. The prophecies led them to believe that they must complete an impossible quest to save all of humanity and that they are the only ones who are worthy of completing their quests.

Now isn’t that a magnificent notion? A single person, out of the billions who exist, is the only one who can save the world. Sure, they’ll have a few sidekicks and allies, but ultimately, it’s their sword that will pierce the heart of the monster.

Or, more accurately, ultimately, it’s their heart that will be pierced by the monster when their quest fails.

Final Comments: As I kept writing, the narrator started developing into a character in my mind which was exciting!

Overall Rating: 😮