Now, let's look at an old friend:

y = x

Graph of 45 degree Line Guy

What does an absolute value do to him?

y = | x |
 

Graph of 45 degree Line Guy
It takes these negative heights...

 

Graph of 45 degree Line Guy with the part below the x axis flipped upside-down
and makes them positive!

Hey!  It's V Guy!  That's where he came from!
(Go tell your cat.)