Choices, a microstory

She wasn’t happy with her decision; however, her choices were limited.  It was a situation she should never have been in: die from within at the hands of the lie, or die from without at the hands of bigotry.  Those aren’t great options.  One of them, though, did at least contain the dignity of the truth, and she had to believe that was worthwhile, regardless of the outcome.  So she wrapped herself in the shield of truth and walked boldly out into the hands of the bigots.  As one might expect, her shield was not sufficient to protect her, and she fell under the weight of their prejudice.  Then unexpectedly, as she feared the end, a hand reached down to lift her up.  Another hand appeared, and another.  Soon she was surrounded by a wall of supporters, each bearing their own scars, that were shielding her from the oppressive crowd.  As she was helped to her feet, she saw the sun shine through the hands held out to her creating the most beautiful prismatic effect.  The crowd, seeing their prey no longer defenseless disbanded in search of an easier kill.  Whereupon the circle of protectors, with one more added to their number, formed up and headed for the next cry for help they heard.