Blog choice- The Land Remembered

 Chapter 21 of “The Land Remembered” gives us a better look at the relationship that Tobias has with his son Zech. Throughout the book, we understand the bond they have between father and son as we read about Zech growing up and all the things the family went through while living in the scrubs. This chapter allows us to get an in depth look of Zech as an adult caring for his father the way his father cared for him throughout his life. Tobias decided to take a trip to Okeechobee and decided that Zech would come with him on the trip to deliver some cattle and some rifles to Keith Tiger and Tony Cypress. (Smith, pg.191) through the journey they both experienced new animals, beautiful sunsets, and secret places that would bring memories for a long time and they did it together! This mission was very important to Tobias because it was the young family members of Keith and Tony who were killed while returning home with cattle for their tribe. Cattle that were given to the teenage boys by Tobias himself to feed their family. Keith Tiger and Tobias have helped each other a few times in the past and Tobias refused to let the time pass without informing Keith about the tragedy. The time Zech and his father spent together traveling to Okeechobee would open up a door to such beauty that they have never seen, a sickness that almost brought death, and an experience that allowed us to see how Zech was raised. With honesty and morals and a way to succeed. It was a glimpse into the heart of a young man who is now at a time of his life where he will have his own path. A path shown by his father's guidance, love, and experience. While Tobias was sick, Zech had to learn patience and to be hopeful and to trust those caring for his father even though his worry took over him. I especially love this chapter because it feels like there was a small break in between all the struggles in their life. A time that was given to Zech and Tobias to bond and to learn new things about the land they lived on as well as gain new experiences to create a nostalgic moment one day.