my grandma taught herself how to read & write
when she was in her 20s.

before that, her life consisted of:

-sustaining herself off of tree bark & grass,

-taking care of her 10 siblings & their offspring

-and war.

autumn wolf (her nephew) showed up one day unexpectedly.

he took the train from the north to come ask for money.

i couldn't help but stare at this man

(his yellow eyes, broken hand, ragged clothes).
he stared back.

he's related to me but looked like

he was from at least two centuries ago

from some ancient chinese legend.