Abstract
The Garden of Echoes is a heartfelt journey into the realms of grief, memory, and renewal. Salem, grappling with the loss of her grandmother Rose, retreats to the attic—once a sanctuary of warmth and stories. There, hidden among forgotten treasures, she discovers an ornate door that leads her into a fantastical garden, alive with ethereal light and whispered memories. Each corner of this enchanted space unveils vivid fragments of her past, where flowers bloom with the colors of long-forgotten moments and the air hums with the voices of loved ones lost. As Salem steps deeper into the garden, she encounters a willow tree that holds the voice of Rose, offering her wisdom in the form of tender guidance. Through encounters with her grandmother's spirit and fleeting glimpses of her own life, Salem learns that grief and love are intertwined, that the heart can hold both pain and beauty in equal measure. In the quiet embrace of the garden, she discovers that healing comes not from letting go, but from honoring the memories that shape us. The Garden of Echoes is a story about how the past and present coexist, how love transcends loss, and how the act of remembering can transform grief into a source of strength and peace.
Bio
I'm Ashley Taliaferro, a dedicated member of the U.S. Navy, currently serving as a Naval Aircraft Engine Mechanic with 10 years of experience. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on some of the most advanced aircraft systems, ensuring their reliability and safety. My time in the Navy has not only given me a strong technical foundation but has also instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork.
Alongside my military service, I’ve been pursuing higher education. I’m currently in my second year of college, and I’ve found a real passion for English. The courses I’ve taken so far have greatly boosted my confidence in writing, allowing me to express myself more clearly and creatively. It’s been an exciting challenge, and I’m eager to continue building on this newfound passion.
When I’m not balancing work and school, I’m at home with my five dogs—a Dalmatian and four Huskies. They bring endless energy and joy to my life, and I cherish the time I spend with them.
As I continue serving in the Navy and growing through my education, I look forward to embracing new opportunities and further developing my skills, both in my profession and as a writer.
Recommended Citation
Taliaferro, Ashley
(2024)
"The Garden of Echoes,"
Night Flight Journal: Vol. 5
, Article 16.
Available at:
https://commons.erau.edu/night-flight/vol5/iss1/16