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Brian Reindel 👾⚔️'s avatar

All the time I wonder. Then I remember how blessed I am, and how I wouldn't change my present circumstances. Slipping into an alternate reality for a short while would make for an exciting adventure though 😁

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Justin Deming's avatar

Agreed. I wouldn’t change anything. Haha, it would be exciting — as long as I had a guaranteed return ticket! 😄

Thanks for reading, Brian.

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Mark Starlin's avatar

Life is a billion zillion little and big decisions. And each one has the potential to completely alter our lives.

Great lesson in a compact story, Justin.

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Justin Deming's avatar

So true. Thank you for the kind words, Mark!

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thanks Justin. I love this idea of "what if". I had a steady job for thirteen years that just barely kept my boy and me alive. I hated every minute of it. I dreaded going to work every day. One day I just spontaneously gave notice. Brave? Foolish? It took me less than six months to find my direction, my identity. I never regretted my decision once. If I hadn't quit, I never would have known what I was capable of -- which was so much more than I imagined. Some times we just have to take a risk. Sharron at Leaves.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thank you so much, Sharron, and for sharing your experience. You’re right. Sometimes we just have to take risks to see what else is out there. I’m happy you decided to - happy our paths crossed, too!

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Bill Adler's avatar

"Brevin Townes slipped into an alternate reality one morning while walking his dog" is a great opening sentence.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks so much, Bill. I’m happy to hear you thought so!

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Jason McBride's avatar

I love the way you use Chips to ratchet up the tension in the story. I read with the image of a confused, lonely dog in the back of mind and was so relieved when everyone was reunited! Great story!

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks so much, Jason. That’s what I was shooting for. Originally Chips wasn’t a part of the story, so I’m happy he was included!

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Geoffrey Golden's avatar

In my experience, everyone wonders “what if” at some point in their lives, even the most happy and successful people.

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Justin Deming's avatar

Very true - we can’t help but wonder!

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Kim Smyth's avatar

Great story, I love this concept! Yes, I have considered how my life would be different had I been allowed to join the Navy and go to Italy like my dad always hoped I would. Instead, I joined the Army and was not told when the letter of acceptance came to my parents house. Would I have met someone different, never had my loving husband and kids? Of course. So for that reason, I wouldn’t want to change anything 😀

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Justin Deming's avatar

Thanks for commenting, Kim. Couldn’t agree more with you! 😊

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