It had been so hard to let her go, then. It was impossible now. I heard my throat catch, emitting a sound I never had before. I couldn’t believe my daughter was gone. I was alone, on the edge between land and sea, earth and heaven, life and death. Suddenly a magnificent blue heron flew overhead, flapping its angular wings, leading with its long neck, graceful and strong, the hue of heaven itself. Tears came to my eyes. I took the heron as a sign. It resonated within me. It felt like Allison’s soul, beautiful, strong, and proud, set free, taking flight. I love you, Al.
