Only 2 Things

“I can only think of two things,” she said.
“What two things did you think of?” I asked, clueless.
“There’s only been two good things that have happened to me this year,” she replied.
I pause. I lose my breath for a moment.
I look at her in surprise and wonder what’s on her mind.
She smiles a sad smile. She names her two things.
“I’ve become closer with my sister.” That’s one.
“I made a new friend, online, Lydia.” That’s two.
Her words cause a small crack in my heart.
She is turning 13 in a few days. This should be a wonderful time.
I feel so old and tired this year. Some days I hang on by a thread.
I forget how patient she has been through this pandemic.
I stay busy taking care of all the necessary things or worrying.
She is looking at me for comfort. She is awaiting a response.
I think quickly, trying to gather my racing thoughts.
“Well, the year’s not over yet,” I say hopeful. “I’m sure you’ll get number three.”
I smile at her, hoping my smile doesn’t look sad too.
Hoping that she’ll believe me. That I believe me too.
I leave the room and say my prayer. I repeat it.
Dear God, please, let there be a third good thing for her.