the princess and the giant (5.6.11)

“NO, don’t step there!”

I look down and see a little girl running toward me. On her head I see a little chain of daisies and in her hand is a stick. I recognize the costume as the garb of a royal princess, wielding a magic wand. The costume, I know, was made in a pinch, but the dignity with which she ran towards me was inspiring. I decide to play along with her game.

“Why not?” I ask.

“Because you can’t step over a castle wall, silly.”

“A giant can.”

“Yes,” she agrees with a smile, “a giant can.”