All of the early buds and blossoms have run their course. The first wildflowers are wilting in the fields. But there is a second round - berries bursting forth, apples and crabapples growing, a new crop of queen anne's lace emerging, and mid-summer flowers showing their pretty faces.
They make me think of my youngest daughter. With high school behind her and gratifying summer work under way, T. is coming into her own. I know that for some, high school years provide wonderful, lifelong memories of fulfillment and deep connections. For others, they are a time of shackled identity.
It also helps that she found a job where she can flourish this summer. Last year she was cleaning out dog kennels and struggling with an intimidating boss. This year she is in retail, working with people, talking to customers, and getting lots of positive feedback.
She is like a flower coming into bloom, so happy to see the sun, suddenly aware that she is a beautiful part of a beautiful world.
Her grandmother turned to me the other night after spending an evening with T. T had been regaling the table with stories of her workplace. On request, she delivered her sales pitch for artisan imported olive oils and balsamic vinegars with dazzling confidence. "Wow," said Nana to me afterwards, "She is something! Bravo!"
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