I was out walking late afternoon last week and passed a family on their front porch—a mother, two children, one big dog. The dog was stretched out on the porch floor in front of the kids, who were both on the porch swing. They weren’t swinging, though. They were each reading a book. They were resting their feet on the dog’s flank. The mother was sitting in a chair next to the swing. She was reading, too.
The cicadas were singing. But other than that, the world was quiet.
I was filled, suddenly, with happiness, hope.
I have thought of that family every night since then.
I have imagined them sitting together on the porch, reading.
I have sent them my love and gratitude.

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