Song of the Mockingbird: My Journey with Josefina

I put down the bowl of tea I’ve been cradling. I thank Josefina, but I don’t think I can drink it right now. I tell her I should stay back to rest. She asks if I’m sure and asks if I want her to stay with me. I say no because I don’t want her to miss the fandango. Josefina strokes my hand.

And then, I say that I’m starting to remember some things about my family. Josefina beams and pulls the blanket up around me. She tucks in the corners and smooths it out. She says that we will go, but Teresita is here if I need anything.

I catch Josefina’s hand as she starts to turn away. I tell her that I know where my home is now. I must leave her to look for it soon. I thank her for being my friend. A grin spreads across Josefina’s face and our eyes meet in a bond that I know will last me forever.

When everybody leaves and the room is dark, I raise the flute to my lips and play the special tune. I am going home.

When I open my eyes, I’m back on my boulder, and Mom is calling me from the doorway of the house. I sit up, brushing my t-shirt as she comes over. She says that she’s been calling for me. Did I sleep? I stay silent as I clamber down from the boulder. Mom loops her arm through mine and says that we should go in. Dad is almost done with his tamales. “Yum,” I say. Then I realize my stomach already gotten better.

Mom is confused. She thought I didn’t like tamales. I think back to the clay platter on Josefina’s table. The steam rising from the husk-wrapped bundles. The faces of Josefina, Clara, Francisca, and Tía Dolores glowing in the candlelight.

I tell my mom that maybe I’ve just realized there’s a lot more to love here in New Mexico than I thought.