Everything, plus two

I own a basket, I dyed it a bright soft orange color and threaded one of Leis ribbons through it. It sits on my steps and sometimes people leave things in it. Today they left suck in it. But I have to keep in mind that it was I who offered the basket to be filled.

What does it mean to be Tuchuk? I have been a Tuchuk my whole life so forgive me if I struggle with the question. The question of why do I exsist. I am raising Tuchuk Children. I cook for those who may otherwise eat alone. I have allowed my role in the tribe to become the day care provider of the down trodden.

What do I offer the Tribe? It is a strange question to ask someone who has always been tribe. I offer, simply, everything. It would be easier to tell me what you want so I can happily agree that yes, I offer that too. I offer everything and then a little more. I offer my quite words, my hand to hold, I offer my smiles, my time, my thoughts, my ideas, my energy, my .. soul. My Tuchuk soul. And above all that.. I offer my love. I love each and every person I touch, even the people who wish I would go away, I love them too. Because they are Tuchuk, as am I.

It hurts, so badly, to know friends might think I am not offering enough and I admit I briefly felt a desire to quit, to return to Oren and Astar and go back to a more simple, more silent life. I could be happy that way. Being of the Ubars fires is not the only hope I have. But .. it is my hope and I will not abandon it over careless words. I will not go quietly into the night. I will remian here, tall and proud and strong and soft and open and honest.

Even if my honesty is not everyones favorite flavor. Because that flavor? I offer that too.

I am Tuchuk, hear me roar.