"If there's one thing this boy knows about, it's birds." So said Javi's father, with a tinge of embarrassment, as he responded to a claim excusing prolonged absence.
Birdwatching became an outlet of expression as Javi tried to fit into a world that seemed to be offended by his mere presence. The avocation became a distinction, for better and worse, and coincidentally led to other, unexpected and unlikely interests – bringing new friendships and strengthening old acquaintances. Though Javi finds many experiences to support his expectations, it is those that do not that he finds most difficult to accept.
