…To Those Who Wait

"Earlier today, an angel was sighted near the Sacramento River in Rio Vista."

"Reports claim she paused briefly to take a few pictures for a local admirer."

"She wasn't content to simply pose for a photo shoot, however."

"She also had plans to take a few pictures of her own for the occasion."

"Her local admirer also made an appearance."

"What better way to spend a day after a year apart than a poolside frolic."

"Though one should never forget to stretch."

"Or…something."

"Ii desshou?"

"So, shall we get in?"

"YES!"

Despite all my earlier misgivings about the visa process and how long it took, I've never achieved anything more special in my life than bringing my Yumeko [yoo-may-ko] into it. Not graduating from college. Not going to Japan. What a sweet victory to have struggled together by our own devices and to have successfully navigated the rough waters of immigration! (Without a lawyer, no less!) We deserve a medal. Huzzah!

Now, we swim in far calmer, far more pleasant waters. Thank God.

To all those who struggle for what they need/want/lack—from military veterans to those seeking citizenship to couples starting a family, et al.—good things come! May it all be yours in due time.