Like Divining

There is something very "other-worldly" about portrait painting. The eyes show so much of a person. The artist sits, staring at those eyes. Hour after hour. Trying to honestly portray the soul within.

No matter how hard I try I cannot make my daughter's eyes happy. I likewise cannot make my son's eyes fearless.

I shudder at the thought. I hope they outgrow these images. I hope I did not contribute to the darkness I see there.

And still, I cannot take credit for the outstanding emotion, fiery and catching. These two souls will outlive me. These two souls will light a fire I never lit. Will love those I never loved. Will create things I never touched.

My daughter will mend her broken heart. My son will slay his dragons.