Ondine

Ondine—a delicate strong little person—

Slightly bending forward to balance the weight of her back-pack, she was leading the small group of people who had just gotten off the bus from Morelia.

I waved. She looked back to seek approval from her parents, and then she ran to meet me.

It was a bright and slightly breezy afternoon and the sun shining on her back made her look like a little angel with golden hair flying in the wind.

 After getting into the car for the pleasant thirty minute drive from Zihuatanejo bus terminal to our home in Barra de Potosí, I could see her in the rear-view mirror. Her pungent blue eyes were like little radars, absorbing everything in sight. Her parents, a mature couple, were very attentive and prompt to answering patiently all her questions. I was amazed at how well a six year old could carry on a conversation in the presence of a stranger.

The two week vacation passed quickly and enjoyably. Her keen interest for cooking, playing chess, fishing, playing with other children, and reading was something I was no longer accustomed to, after having lived in this secluded part of Mexico.

I saw the tail light of the taxi disappear from our driveway at daybreak, this morning. I did not dare to be seen by the little person with inquisitive eyes. She would have seen the sadness in mine.

Good-bye little Ondine. I wish you all a safe trip. Maybe, one day, we shall meet again.