The gates were doing something to him already, because as he raised his hand to wave back at his parents, Mitchell felt ten years old again, tearing up, choked with feeling for these two human beings who, like figures from myth, had possessed the ability throughout his life to blend into the background, to turn to stone or wood, only to come alive again, at key moments like this, to witness his hero's journey. Lillian
In this moment, Mitchell experiences a wave of nostalgia as he waves goodbye to his parents. The gates around him evoke a sense of childhood innocence, reminding him of his early years when his parents were always present yet often seemed to fade into the background. Their ability to appear alive during significant moments of his life highlights their lasting impact on his personal journey.
As he reflects on his feelings, Mitchell realizes the deep emotional connection he has to his parents. Their presence feels mythical, significant in his life, and integral to his path. Their blend of support and invisibility emphasizes the complex relationship that shapes who he is, as he embarks on this new chapter of his life.
