Mooring

a place where a boat can be tied so that it cannot move away

Photo by PerOla Hammar on Unsplash

An Asian grandmother standing on the curb watching the sun go down. She is moving her lips in such a way that I believe her gums serve as place holders. I wave from across the street and she offers me a deep bow.

HOLY MOORING.

Photo by Jusdevoyage on Unsplash

While walking the dog I am sitting, a random guy whizzes by me on a motorcycle and yells out, “CORGI!” He thrusts his fist into the air like we have both won some sort of award.

CELEBRATION MOORING.

Photo by Lucy Mui on Unsplash

A woman named Gerry and her black lab named Sadie. Both who had just returned from the hospital. It seems Sadie’s original owner would be shortly crossing over and Gerry shared her relief that she made it - bringing Sadie for one final visit.

BLACK LAB LOVE MOORING.

Photo by Marcel Fagin on Unsplash

A gentleman parked in the beach lot stepping out of his truck with a smallish, fluffy white dog. I ask, “Is she your ‘Ride or Die?’ Turns out he belongs to a bike club called Ride or Die. We chat about how important it is, especially right now, to “find your people.” He is tinier, mightier and more muscular than me. We bid our adieus as I continue on my walk.

CONNECTION MOORING.

A Corgi named Augie that saddles up to walls to stay cool and low: this may include walking over people’s feet which then magically leads to being pet with adoration.

STRANGERS TURNED FRIENDS BY ASSOCIATION WITH CORGI MOORING.

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After the bombing of the Iranian school killing children and teachers, I began to do what I do best when it all feels out of control: clench, tighten, spin.

Then a whisper came and gently said, “Michelle, look up.” (code for: be present)

What is mooring you? What is keeping you tethered? How are you doing? Asking for a friend.