When he was old enough, his father said to him – "it’s time for you to join me and learn about the river. Tomorrow you’re coming with me, my son."
That night the boy was dreaming about something dark, powerful and mysterious.
Next morning, as he was standing by the river, looking into the dark waters, his father said: "before we go, we must pray and ask the river to let us in, to guide us, to help us find the way. But remember – the river is dangerous, so whatever you think you see, and whatever you think you hear – it’s the river trying to decieve you. Just stay on the boat. This is the only place where you’re safe."
As they were paddling up the river, the boy was looking in the water. It was dark and silent. "During the day the river sleeps" – said the father – "but it’s power is right there, just below the surface. If you look closely you can see spirits of people who were taken by it. But be careful – don't look for too long, or you will join them."
But the boy kept looking right into the river’s eyes – deep, dark and silent.
…
Since then they have been going on the river many times. And every time the boy was looking into the river’s eyes, as the river revealed it's secrets, showing him what's under the surface – shapes, colors, movement, life. Every time a little bit deeper…