Skin

Deep in a cool, soft-hearted jungle lives a freedom-filled young woman, whose name is Tin Tin Kyrano.

She loved to go to the lake every day and shower under the waterfall. Given the chance, she would bathe in the crystal clear lake.

But what made her days more fun was when I, a 3 year old named Sybil, would run away from my tribe to play with her.

When she saw me running towards her, she would giggle as I leapt into the water, squealing with joy.

She loved me more than my mother Lady Penelope would love me in her tribe, and her skin was so satiny soft and smooth - it felt like touching nothing at all.

She would watch as I tried learning to swim in the water.

Often, she taught me how to.

She knew the water very well. It was like she was born to enjoy it.

She played with me in the water every day I visited her too.

She would lie on her back and lift me high into the air, while I squealed in joy.

We would splash each other, and we’d play tag amongst the cool water.

Sometimes, we would visit a part of the forest that Tin Tin loves to visit.

It has lots of lovebirds sitting in the trees, looking very silent and coloured green and orange, like the Caribbean.

But when we entered, me safe in Tin Tin’s arms, our aura spread to the birds in the branches. They started squawking loudly and rubbing their beaks against each other.

Tin Tin told me that it takes a wild, beautiful, natural woman like her to fill the jungle with love and kindness - and someday, I’ll be just like her.

Tin Tin and I are quite alike - smooth skin, a love of nature and a never ending sense of happiness upon us.

We love cuddling in the softest, leaf-covered part of the jungle, where Tin Tin loves to sleep.

Given the chance, Tin Tin would hold me close as she went to sleep and sing me a lullaby in a hushed voice.

She was like my second mother. I could never have another protector like her.

Our love for one another is endless - it’s like we’re both sisters, born to bond with each other.

The jungle has known it in its heart, as did everyone else who knew of my friendship with her.

I have shared lots of moments of love and laughter with Tin Tin. She loves me, and I love her too.

We share kisses, cuddles, hugs and snuggles, and our friendship is ever lasting…

And now, as an adult with responsibilities of protecting my tribe, I still remember my friendship with Tin Tin.

Thanks, Tin Tin. I’ll always remember you.