“You know Doc, the Indians of the southwest believed that some spirits were shape-shifters and they could become animals, other sprits or even other people. Sometimes I feel like that. I feel like I’m a shape-shifter.”

She watched the movie over and over, watching her dead husband, almost willing his celluloid self to come to her. She felt as though she, too, was being driven by some force toward her husband on the screen.

I have been a fool, it seems, living a lie instead of speaking the truth. Instead of defending the rights and the freedoms of people on the street of my hometown, I went away and fought. What would it have been like if I’d had the courage to speak to her, to Hannah?

After a scary start, the two Lone Pine boys celebrate the best Christmas ever. By the end of the day they are true blood brothers, and make a promise to each other that ultimately guides them toward a successful and rewarding life.

Christmas is meant to be about family, so when Jerry senses his friend is in trouble he rushes to his side, bringing Christmas with him.

They say a small cascade of pebbles can cause an avalanche. It can also be true for minor occurrences in people’s lives. This was certainly the case for two small boys who, ignored by their family and taunted by bullies, learned they could only rely on each other in a way that would ultimately stand the test of time.

Blair clutches the photo of her husband and two children. The edges are bent and out of shape; worn and damaged. The photo is with her always, like a friend, a companion. She studies the photo with concentration, as though she could bring them back to her.

Complaining about social distancing while well fed and entertained is a first world issue.

Life doesn’t always have to be hard. Sometimes, Mamas can get good jobs, Grammas can get new hips and a little girl and her dog can play together and watch the clouds float on by.

Sometimes Mamas need help. Sometimes they almost let grief and depression ruin their life, and the lives of the ones they love.