Stop and write about “a ray of sunshine in the dark” if you wish. Or you could [[a mind to meander|go back to where the river begins]]. ---- “Is this that game you always talk about, daddy?” I chuckled at my 8-year-old’s question. “Yes, Armen; this is the one.” I replied, almost sure I could hear his jaw drop to the floor. Ever since I’d been left with Armen on my own, I’ve been trying to make connections with him, such as sports, television shows, and sometimes even food that he likes. While these connections were all well and good, I could tell that Armen wanted to do something with me, and not just be next to me. So, over the past few weeks, I’d been starting to tell him about something I quite enjoyed as a child: an online video game called “Ratty Catty.” The name sounded funny, but once I’d played it, I absolutely fell in love with it. The concept of the game was for the mouse parents to avoid being caught by the cats, and bring food from the fridge to their babies. I second guessed myself based upon the simplicity of it, but knowing that Armen loved animals, especially cats, I decided to go for it, regardless. Judging by the look in his eyes as we sat at my computer, I know I made the right decision. “So, are you ready to play, bud?” I asked, receiving the biggest smile from Armen as a response. “Yeah, yeah, yeah! I wanna be a kitty cat and chase daddy!” Armen exclaimed, giggling to himself. “Are you sure you can catch me? I’m pretty fast.” I teased. “Yeah, I’m gonna get you! I’m ready!” Armen replied, pumping his fists in the air. I couldn’t help but smile as I helped him figure out the controls and directions. Armen’s eyes lit up more and more with every word I said; it was almost like he was seeing the scenery on the screen in real life. “Alright, do you need any more help?” I asked. “Nope, but thanks, daddy. I can do it!” Armen exclaimed. “Alright, bud; here we go!” I exclaimed, playing the game with him from my laptop. As we started, I began going easy on him, so as to not discourage him. But as the game went on, I noticed that Armen was picking up on it very quickly. He was a natural, just like I was when I was young. Though, with the years of practice that I let go of, I’ve become a less-than-average player. I was actually struggling to keep up with my son, but I was still having just as much fun as I had back in those days. “I did it, daddy! I won!” Armen exclaimed, looking to me for approval. “I’m proud of you, bud; great job!” I replied, giving him a fist bump; he loves them. Although, as I did it, tears began to well up in my eyes. Remembering those times when all I’d look forward to was playing games on my computer with my school friends... it brought about a special feeling. My chest felt like clouds, and [[my heart felt at peace]]. Knowing that this silly little kids’ game could bring my son happiness, just as it did for me, just felt so rewarding to me. Sharing that special thing with the ones you care for most really is one of the best feelings in this whole world, and nothing can replicate it. “Daddy, are you okay? Did you get a bump or an ouchie?” Armen asked, checking my forehead for bumps. “Haha, no I’m alright, Armen. Now, how about we get you some dinner from Olive Garden?” I asked. “Yay! I want the biggest lasagna they have!” Armen exclaimed, jumping up and down. “Don’t get ahead of yourself, you little devil.” I laughed, giving my son a hug. The smile I caught on his face was the thing that made that day the best I’d ever had. – keira baney