Alum Creek

Living in Ohio, there are occasions when the absence of a large body of water nearby is painstakingly palpable. After all, this is the first time that I have lived away from a coast.



It must have been something I took for granted. I would not call myself a 'water' person by any means. Apparently, I don't need to be IN the water, but I valued an access to it. And as I am getting older, the presence of water to me means a lot more than just the water itself.



The coast, whether it's by an ocean, or a big lake, brings with it a certain culture. It draws certain people, certain minds, and aspirations. It provides a narrative that is uniquely coastal. It inspires and touches different senses and values. It gives a sense of freedom.



Water also plays such an unrivaled entertainment for children. Our little boy has been fascinated by it, and what he can find in it, since he was a baby. In fact, his Thai name is water. I would not be surprised if water and the living organisms therein someday become the focus of his life.

Not too far from where we live is a small body of running water called Alum Creek. On a sunny day after the rain, it can be quite a sanctuary, and a wonderful natural playground. We spent sometime there today; he collected crayfish while I read in the peace and quiet of the soft flowing water.

It was just enough to fulfill my craving for now. As they say, little can go a long way.