2024 NATIONAL MEDAL
for Museum and Library Service Finalist

Adults

Sunsets

Sunsets by Virginia Lee (a Short Story Contest entry) 

"Come on, Bear."

The leash dangles limply from Rebecca's hand as her Labrador trails behind her, tongue lolling out of his gray muzzle. She sits on the bank of the lake and he flops down next to her, resting his head in her lap. She strokes Bear's fur as the sun sinks below the glittering water.

Tomorrow will bring tears and goodbyes, but for now they have this moment. They have each other.

Recovery Walk

Other’s success stories inspired the man’s practice following his doctor’s declaration of permanently lost walking ability. After enough recovery for independent slow strolls and questioning the claim, the doctor confessed his reluctance to admit the lack of certainty of recovery. The patient advised to instead encourage waiting for answers after long term practice and treatment. The doctor apologized and agreed to hereafter inspire patients, congratulating the man’s wisdom, recovery progression, and hopeful persistence.