THE PARK

It was our first date: a ratty, old blanket, spread on the grass near the lake, some deli sandwiches and soda and a lost kite trapped in the branches of a nearby tree. I wanted to date her roommate-a sexy blond-but played it safe, asking her out instead, hoping she wouldn’t say no. Later, she climbed the tree and freed the kite! I started applauding. On the way home we touched hands and never let go.

Twenty years later, it turned out she was the better choice. She is always soft and delicate, shedding her light wherever she goes.