Stories Incomplete storiesincomplete

I have experienced too many specific events that I have “wished” to occur for mere coincidence to explain. However, I am also equipped with a rational mind – a mind that is hard-wired to seek out direct causes and effects. This would leave me dumbfounded when the question of “how” some situations in my life could have possibly unfolded. Wiser now, I have grown to simply accept and to be grateful for dreams that are fulfilled - but the question remains, what of those dreams that don’t come to pass?  
This is a simple, fictional story of what could happen when discordant themes, when opposing wills clash – unknowingly derailing a particular reality from manifesting.   Oh, by the way, there isn’t a Norms diner at the corner of Figuroa and El Cento in Hollywood. The two streets (to my knowledge) don’t meet. 
Special thanks to Pipe Choir III for the use of “Slow Time” as background music. 

The “facts” in this story all occurred.
To those of you who know me in real life – now you know why I really left my home and moved to California over 40 years ago.
Special thanks to P C III for the use of “Trampled” as background music. 

We have all seen how a parent can be too invested in their child’s academic or athletic success.  But what happens when the child prodigy falls just short?   
Like many of my fictional stories, "No Pain No Gain” has a full measure of ‘truth” included. 
Special thanks to P C III for the use of "Slow Time" as background music.
Enjoy! 

This is a story about how one’s principles and self-respect can clash with the situations that society forces us into.   Even though this is fiction, the character and some of the events mentioned in the story are inspired by a man who I have personally known for 40 years. I hope that you enjoy this story and I hope that it gives you something to think about afterward. 
 Thanks for your permission and for giving me the title for this story Sarge! 
Also, Special Thanks to Stacxk for the use of “Cold & Clear” as background music!  

We have all heard stories of how someone owes their fame or good fortune to their making a deal with the devil, but we rarely hear about the deals that don’t work out.  In this story, even the devil can’t help. 
A very special thanks to “Night on Mars” for the use of “Calm and Luxury” as background music. 

Demolition Derby is a rather dark fictional story based upon how the trials and tribulations of the working poor play out in their lives.  In this story, one family’s problem “ran off” years before only to resurface later.  After you listen to the story, you are invited to comment on what you think happens next. 
Special thanks to Night on Mars for giving me permission to use “State of Waves” as background music.