Of Literature and Lattes

by Katherine Reay

Janet’s control and brave façade covered a bottomless well of doubt. So certain that her substance was virtually nil, she had buffed on the brightest gloss. Only when scratched could one see how thin her top layer really was.

“Mothers and daughters. It’s a unique and complex relationship. You may never be able to see me in a new way. And I’m sorry for that.”

But a loving, gentle soul is made by and through fire. A loving, gentle soul doesn’t get that way because life keeps it all safe and sheltered, up in a box on a shelf. Life isn’t so kind. It’s a gift from God and it’s also a hard-fought choice.

“You’ll never have certainty and you will mess up. We’re human. It’s what we do.” He paused to let his words sink in. Seth stared at him. “But there is also grace, and you and Janet know about grace. So I suggest you pray. Every day.