The Blind Beggar: Part XXVII

Amal sat on her balcony facing the Mediterranean and considered the setting sun and the sky before her.  Her mind was elsewhere but fought to concentrate on what she needed to do.  The following she’d gained on her blog grew daily and many expected regular sunset descriptions.  Still, it had been just over a year since her husband died.  In the months, after his death, she poured herself into her children.  It was a necessary thing to do but once they seemed to become accustomed to being fatherless, they would never get over losing their father, it was about that time Amal began writing again in earnest. 

Pouring out her pain was healing.  It was a much needed release.  Now that much of her life was settled, there was new a stirring in her soul.  It was a small impatience from another area in her life that had never fully been quenched.  This thirst began crying out for the drops of heaven.  They craved the same healing her emotions had received.  Slowly, imperceptibly, she wanted companionship. 

Still, at this point Amal recognized not this thirst.  She still honed her attention on her children, her household and her writing.  She didn’t let herself see anything else.  Therefore, the awakening within her was squelched by repeated business with the things a mother always does.  That is the life of a mother. 

Again, she fought her wondering mind.  The sunset, what does it say to me?  How would I describe it to Ali?  Remembering Ali reminded her of the evening of her first sunset portrayal to him.  With much pressing in on her mind, she chose to paint this scene similar to that one so many years ago.  She would use cotton balls and the same colors as that night.  This sky said nothing to her.  That one spoke volumes.  She would answer the one who was calling.

Boulos, Charles and Rima spent the morning together recounting tales of their recent past.  Much had happened and each had much to say.  There was a shared joy between them and they beamed with smiles.  Charles was happy to advise Boulos he’d received additional donors for financial support.  Therefore, he could continue to travel and share his life story.  Boulos wept at the news.  His life had been a world of darkness both literally and emotionally and spiritually.  What had he done to deserve this favor?  He gave glory to God. 

When the meeting ended and they went their separate ways, Rima said, “I know you appreciate sunsets.” 

“Yes, yes I do.  It is a blessing to see them again.”

“I have been reading a blog written by someone who describes sunsets.  I was going to email a link to you, and I will, but I mean it.  This lady is good!”

“Ok, Ms. Rima.  I will read it if you say it is good.”

“Not just good.  She is very good.”

Bolous smiled, “Yes, ok, very good.  I will read it.”