Wishes

Taken on a different, yet similar night.

As we walked, this evening, it was just the most serene twilight.

The sun set along the horizon, silhouetting the trees before us.

The return loop showed us the approaching darkness.

The moon hung as if placed there just for Ruth and I.

When we go out, I drive Ruth's bike to a nearby place that is off the road, yet paved. She rides for awhile, and I walk. Then, she puts her bike in the truck, and "catches up". I noticed as she and I came together that she was mouthing this poem:

Star light, Star bright

First star I see tonight

Wish I may, Wish I might

Get this wish I wish tonight.

We silently joined hands, and began our journey together.

After a few steps, I began to ask her about her day.

She whispered, "Not yet, I am still making a wish.".

In the quiet moments that followed, I realized that I had no need this night for wishes. Mine are mostly fulfilled. I have a job I love, helping others along their journey, and yet still in a place where I can learn from them. My sailor is returning from the other side of the world to be closer to home. He appears to be in a good place in his life, and that is what I wish for him. DJ is working and loving. This evening, he is in the woods tracking and observing in his quest to supply food for his family. He has also opened himself to his siblings in a way that tells me he is journeying to manhood. The look on his face just makes me know that his life is good. Brian is open to the family, learning, and helping others. These are things I have been wishing for since he was a little boy. He does not cringe from my touch on his shoulder, and he appears to feel comfortable in his skin. God is working in him, and he does not even know it yet. Ruth may have struggles, but tonight, ah, tonight, she helped to peel and mash potatoes, clear the table, and was eager to take my hand. This is the time of year when Darrell and I often fight, but there is no tension. He has joined me in meeting with the school, listened when I spoke my feelings about 'the game', and there was teasing and thoughtful conversation that helped me to feel connected to him regardless of the fact that we have not had real time together in over a week.

Small blessings to be sure, but blessings just the same.