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Ray Rasmussen

In Praise of Sons

Paul steps up before family and friends on Alex's 18th birthday. He begins, "I'm proud of my son...," and then describes Alex's accomplishments in sports and music. Most are aware that Alex has failed several courses in his last year of high school. That's not mentioned. The tearing of eyes is universal. Why are we all so touched by this father's accolades?

Back home, I think about my father who spoke so seldom, open my drawer of mementos, pick out a letter from my mother after his death. "He always boasted about you to his friends."

dusk
the flash of a
yellow warbler

Published originally in Moonset.