Strands of green grass break through brown ground, answering
the call of blue skies tinged with yellow. The geese and ducks have returned to
Herrmann Pond, looking for nesting sites. An early spring has arrived, and I
breathe deep, exhale slowly, and wipe the tears cascading down my cheeks. The
renewal of life, crisp and bright, juxtaposed against your untimely death, and
the missing in my heart that sometimes explodes like a home-made bottle rocket.
I want to hug you tight, I want you to go to college, get married, and have
kids. I want to call you on the phone and tell you how much I miss you…
The moment passes, and the dogs and I stroll home, hopeful
of another sunny day, the birth of glorious flowers, and the gardening on the
horizon. I miss you, Nik, every day.
