Ten rupees in his pocket as he spread his gentle talons to sway this land; pouring blood, sweat, and tears to drop more pennies into his piggybank.

Fast forward some years for when he married my momma. Another few and all of us were born.

He has the curiosity of a child. The smile of a baby. The gentleness in his eyes like that of a kitten that is just learning to see. He’s like a male seahorse, who has cared for and caressed us just like a mother.

When I was little I used to look at his chubby fingers and see the entire world grasped within them.

“Always have enough in your pocket so rather than asking someone for money, you have enough to pay for them too.” “Thank you shohna*, laa luu*.” “Nothing is worth even robbing one moment of your happiness.”

These are only a few of gold encrusted feathers that will float around me forever.

He’s previous- not like diamonds or property. He’s precious like a newly discovered planet that offers nothing less than everything you’ve ever wanted and needed.

His steadfast confidence, perseverance, empathy, and sound body, are the reason my heart beats so strong today. He is my Safe Haven.

*shohna= beautiful

*laa luu= toddler Pangaean saying “I love you.”