I flew a kite today and rejoiced in beauty rising from the ashes of pain. I thought of Alfred, Mami and baby John so close in their suffering. I savored the sun, the brilliant colors of red earth and blue sky, I smiled at the laughter of a child, I felt the breeze, I kissed the smile of a child and I held the hand of hope. Need and death surround me and overwhelm me with their abundance. Healing and joy is sparse in comparison, but its beauty lifts my heart, drives me with passion and allows me the peace to fly a kite.