For the morning, we walk alongside each other and take pictures in the small town where I grew up. His father and his brother look on. They encourage us. They wait patiently, even as it begins to rain. He’s smiling and laughing and I see a glimmer of joy. The chill in the air is invigorating. The change of scenery washes over him, leaving him refreshed and shining. He holds his camera up, framing first one scene then the other. He looks at me, and I know what he’s trying to say. I don’t have the answers. I still feel overwhelmed by sadness at times. My problems are not fixed. There is no easy way out. I have my work cut out for me. But I will continue even when it feels easier to just give up.
Peace floods my heart and I feel the deepest tenderness for him, my youngest son.