“We have calcium in our bones, iron in our veins, carbon in our souls and nitrogen in our brains.  93 percent stardust, with souls made of flames, we are all just stars that have people names.” — Nikita Gill

Rachel’s birthday came and went and I made no mention of it.  What’s wrong with me? Anyone? Anyone? In my book, few days matter more than February 1st: the day kindness got a facelift. (Not to mention understanding and compassion—and laughter, don’t forget laughter.) A day that has afforded me countless blessings. And brought with it a friend who is made up of the most perfect stars. Don’t mistake my silence for lack of deep gratitude.  

I gave Rachel a hodge-podge of small gifts this birthday. (Nothing so grand as last year’s give-a-gift-get-a-gift offering.) Naturally, I wrapped up a few books, my favorite being a picture book that doesn’t require more than 10 minutes’ time. It’s called The Fox and the Star. The illustrations are fantastic. The 2015 Waterstones Book of the Year is charming, maybe even enchanting. Some will say it’s a story about need and loss. But I focused solely on the friendship between the fox and the star—on someone to light the way or simply provide light with the very thought of her.  Rachel is a light in dark places. She’s a light that never goes out. 

Posted by Tracy