In "The Risk Pool" by Richard Russo, the act of tossing pebbles down from an embankment serves as a metaphor for belief and trust. The characters express their faith in God through this simple yet profound act, reflecting their longing for connection and meaning in their lives. The act becomes a ritual that signifies their hopes and aspirations, demonstrating how small actions can carry deeper significance.

This quote highlights how seemingly mundane moments can reveal the characters' spiritual beliefs and their coping mechanisms. It encapsulates the themes of faith, vulnerability, and the search for understanding in a complex world, ultimately portraying the characters' inner struggles and resilience as they navigate their circumstances.