lain sight. Whenever anyone mentions New Hampshire, that squirrel is always what I think of. I bet I've thought about that squirrel a million times." (159)To Ray, a dead squirrel was trivial, but to Thomas it had a large enough impact on his life to want to go back to that spot and end his state of anguish. Many people do not realize the impact that some events have on a child's development. As Dominick develops a greater respect for relationships, he decides he should try to establish a positive relationship with Ray. Ray, in his older age is no longer the stern and hostile father that he used to be. He welcomes Dominick with open arms back into his life and decides to make up for lost time. After years and years, virtually all of Dominick's life until present, what was once a bad relationship where respect was enforced by fear, the two men find happiness in their new father and son relationship. After Thomas and Ma are gone, the two men realize that all they have is each other. Ray regrets not expressing love towards both his wife and his sons and vows to grow old with Dominick and be the best father he knows how to be for the remainder of his life. Dominick Birdsey was clearly the stronger twin. All his life, from a child to a middle aged man, he had to take care of someone, namely his brother Thomas. It is very difficult to be constantly giving and getting nothing in return as such was the case with Dominick. Finally, to be showed love by Ray, (the one man who Dominick thought was incapable of love) Dominick accomplished a sense of rest and settlement. Perhaps the reason why Dominick was so strong was because he had to be, as people were dependent on him. His childhood and his everyday battles made him the person that he thought he would never become. He was finally in control of his life....
