There are people going to church,
the community center,
kids carrying kites, walking dogs.
I think about how long it’s been since we went to temple.
We should be going later today, but I wonder if my father actually will.
Outside, I see the Covenanteers passing out programs for the day,
and in the doorway a long red banner:
HARVEST FESTIVAL
TALENT SHOW
AND SPAGHETTI SUPPER
Etan! They call me over.
I hold up the donut box, and they bring me inside.
So, Etan, will you be joining us for the talent show?
The Covenanteer holds up a clipboard full of names and acts:
singers, piano players,
Hula-Hoopers, ventriloquists, at least ten magicians.
I hold the pencil, think about Malia
singing beneath the trees.
Then I sign her name, unsure of the spelling.