Using birthday money from her grandmother, Maya had her ears pierced this evening. Jeanine, her friend Sarinnagh, and I accompanied her to the mall where we witnessed this rite of passage. I have been a major proponent of delaying this day until Maya was 30. The thought of drilling holes in otherwise perfect little ears has been contrary to my fatherly instincts. Having watched Maya mature and blossom over recent months I found myself ready to let go and enjoy this milestone in her life.