C'est la vie

The path was narrow and winding, but the wild flowers that grew on the sides made it look almost beautiful; that anyone who passed this way would take a moment to enjoy the sight. This particular young man, however, did not have eyes for anything else except his wife and their six month old daughter, Kate. Neal had just had his moment in the spotlight – he had just received the Best Album of The Year Award.

He came from a family of artists; even married into one. Music had been the household passion, and he was no exception, seeing as both his parents were composers, his sister a singer, and his wife an accomplished pianist. Within a short time after his foray into the music industry, he had charmed his way into many hearts across the country.

The album meant a lot to them, it was his first after the birth of his daughter; and he had dedicated the album and the award to the newest member of his family. In keeping with tradition, he strongly believed that she would grow up to be one of the best musicians the world had ever seen.

A few hours later, with the prize-winning album playing in the background, mother and daughter were playing peek-a-boo; when he accidentally upset the vase on the table. It came crashing down to the floor, breaking into a thousand tiny fragments, mere inches behind his daughter; who was smiling up at her mother, unfazed by what had happened.

There was a gasp of horror from the mother, who snatched up her child and bellowed in her ears with all the strength she could muster – but her fears proved true. Helpless, overpowered by emotions, she turned to him, tears running down her cheeks.

He looked mortified as the wave of understanding washed over him — his daughter was deaf. He came closer, scooped both of them in a quick embrace, and whispered, "I don't care. I love you…"

His daughter was still smiling.