The panda constrained to nutrient-deficient bamboo. Ethiopia housing the longest-existing lava lake. Everest continues to rise. Mountain ranges caused by continental collisions. The mysteries of our planet. Not roles they chose, roles they were given.

A delight shared. A memory made. An agreement formed.

11 states in the confederate. 9 million people total. A third, 3.5 million, slaves. Emancipated, Jan 1st, 1963. “all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are, and henceforward shall be free.”

If you look for it, that doesn’t change when it will arrive. It changes how quickly you will notice when it arrives. And possibly if you notice it at all.

It became a routine, a ritual. The inconveniences, the hiccups, the expected delays. Now jokes, now anticipated laughter.