Abraham,
At the WNC Nature Center they have river otters that swim by glass windows, bubbles trailing off their bodies like quicksilver drops. They are the highlight of a sullen display of animals in pens. Golden eagles are huge and amazing, but look drab and despondent in wire towers. How sad, to lose the sky.

You loved the otters and the dreadlocked sheep at the petting zoo. I loved walking with you and your Mom, hidden away from the cell phone and a tough day at work.

Pa-

Abraham,
You are such an outdoor boy. Every evening, just before bed, we take you out for a walk around the yard. No matter how riled up you may be, and Lord knows I specialize in riling you up, as soon as we start walking, you settle down. You love Barbara’s small pond and watch the fountain with great intent. You pat the maple trees leaves and pull petals off the roses. We take a walking tour of textures and you like the stones of the fireplace and tree bark. Sometimes we hang out in the hammock. Last night we found a turkey feather that you swung like a sword. Tonight we brought the recycling down to the curb, a lovely long trip. We found rabbit fur in the grass and wondered if maybe someday we’ll see a fox or coyote slinking through the yard.

This is something we wanted for you: air and light and space around, evenings that glow with light and life. We are all more alive; I can see it in our eyes.

Pa-