A Choice of Miracles
"A Choice of Miracles" by James A. Cox is a science fiction short story published in the late 1950s. Set in a distant and exotic jungle on another planet named Abernathy, the narrative explores the themes of survival, love, and the metaphysical connection between a man and his wife during a moment of crisis. The story combines elements of suspense with emotional depth, offering insights into the human condition and the nature of miracles. The plot centers on Andy Larson, who finds himself trapped and paralyzed after the crash of the spaceship he was traveling in. As he lays helplessly in the jungle, he grapples with the fear of dying and the loneliness of being separated from his pregnant wife, Elsie, back on Earth. Throughout the story, their psychic connection allows them to communicate despite the vast distance between them; Elsie's struggles during childbirth mirror Andy's desperate situation. The narrative culminates in a poignant moment of realization and hope wherein the couple's bond transcends physical barriers as they face the possibilities of life and death together. Ultimately, the story underscores the power of love and the miraculous potential of human connection.