What Does a Space Ranger Do?

Calm.

"Mom."

"Yeah, J?"

Silent.

"What does a Space Ranger do?"

This is a routine question, one he asks often. He knows the response. So much so that if it would be different in any word he calls me out immediately. 

He first asked it with curious imagination. Now, he asks and I sense he thinks there may be more to the answer. But perhaps the predictable response lets him feel comfort and that is enough. 

He always listens quietly. I always respond calmly.

He rarely asks more. But he has always asked again.