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101 Word Short Stories

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Childhood Lost

January 28, 2026 5 Comments

By Anna Hehir

I’m six years old. I try to play at lunchtime but the sunlight burns my eyes. I hide in the shade alone.

I’m nine. I wriggle desperately with my hand raised, but my silent pleas are ignored. Tears smudge my test as liquid runs down my leg.

I’m 11. The classroom is a cacophony that makes me wince, but I’m the only one covering my ears.

I’m 14. The cool girls laugh and point as I walk past. I tiptoe to become invisible.

I’m 31. The psychologist confirms I’m autistic. I’m a lost child finally found, grieving a childhood forever lost.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kerri says

    January 28, 2026 at 11:56 am

    Moving story. Great last line. Well done.

    Reply
  2. Faith says

    January 28, 2026 at 12:17 pm

    Powerful, moving, brought me to tears.

    Reply
  3. Tom says

    January 28, 2026 at 6:29 pm

    Wow! A powerful story in so few words.

    Reply
  4. Bud Pharo says

    January 29, 2026 at 9:36 am

    Poignant, powerful, and unfortunately a story lived by so many.

    Reply
  5. Karen Kinley says

    March 31, 2026 at 7:45 pm

    Love this! So poignant. And I’m hopeful there are better supports available now.

    Reply

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