Zest

Childhood wisdom… to easily make friends.
~Katarina Tajiri

Dear Katie,

Pairing you with this chapter felt like Cinderella’s foot slipping into the right-sized glass slipper. I’ve met few who have zip and zest for life like you do.

I learn from watching you grab onto life’s coattails and ride along for all it’s worth. I’ve watched you take what comes and alchemize it into a joyous balance of sweet and salty.

I remember a child who loved Disney films. You set your sights on working for the happiest place on earth, and even though it took years, you found a way to make your dream come true. I smile when I think of you as an intern, tooling around the park on rollerblades, picking up trash and inviting customers to feel magic. You held and followed your vision with pluck, persistence, and perseverance.

You’ve inspired me with your world travel and years lived abroad. My stomach twirls when I think of the raw eggs, kimchi, and seaweed you’ve eaten. You taught both young and old how to speak American-English and helped countless international students find their feet at American universities.

Today you are a mother to two beautiful girls… passing on the best of yourself to the next generation. A living example of childhood wisdom that can last a lifetime.

Thank you for adding your voice to Flourishing Fictions. You make me want to be a better person.

Love and Gratitude,

Auntie Gail