The Island's Gift

I climbed ancient volcanic mountains,
Ragged peaks standing as sentries o’er the earth.
Step by treacherous step,
Breath by laborious breath;
I tread up rock and tree roots and clay.
Across the expanse of time and space…
I saw the face of God.

Compline

   
           "Well, Katy-did, there's a full moon out tonight.  It's supposed to be a fine day tomorrow and it's been a while since I went out on Buckeye Lake.  I think it just may be a good mornin' for fishin.'"
           I quickly glanced up at my grandpa, eager for his next words. The other grandchildren tumbled about in various alcoves of the old Craftsman style home. My place was in the bright warmth of the kitchen near our family's patriarch. This evening I sat playing jacks on the linoleum while he fiddled with his tobacco, his thick calloused fingers deftly pinching the dried leaves. Tufts of white hair spilled over the sleeveless t-shirt that he wore on hot summer nights. I was his first grandchild, his favorite, the apple of his eye, and he spoiled me shamelessly. I adored him.

The Mentor

Part 1: Through the Looking Glass

          Scottie dumped his backpack on the floor and threw himself on the bed. Dusty, his golden retriever, jumped up beside him on the tangle of bedding, and nuzzled Scottie's side. Scottie absentmindedly scratched the pup's head as he stared at the ceiling.
        "I hate my life, Dusty."