Alison Townsend writes about rivers the way one recalls loves-of-their-lives; each with a lesson, a special place in the heart, and with just enough longing to last a lifetime. I was delighted that she wrote about a river that forged my own understanding of the natural world: The Yahara. I often took advantage of that river, but Townsend reminded me of all it had to offer. How rivers heal. I've been healed by many myself. I am grateful for this essay.