Cliches and colloquial sayings irritate me. However, I understand there is a purpose and place for everything. Despite my self-imposed standards, I am about to break my own rules.

A few years ago, I answered the annual questions “Which one is better–1 or 2?” while staring at lines of letters. As the exam continued, I bantered and boasted about my stable eyesight.

Rain. If you live in South Florida, that word evokes a familiar feeling. The sky has showered us with unrelenting raindrops this week.

I had a revelation today. The impetus for this “aha” moment initially agitated and infuriated me. When I got home, I pondered why a seemingly superficial situation sparked such an inwardly intense response.

When Alec left on April 30th, a piece of me went with him. The unexpected torrent of tears shocked me. He’s been going to sleepaway camp for six years hundreds of miles away.

I sensed Saturday morning would be moving and unforgettable. But I did not expect the depth and raw intensity that occured in just a few hours. It felt as though we all entered a collective, invisible cocoon.