Unconditional

“Come home” they cry out. 

Another call beckoning him to return.

Another burden weighing on his shoulders.

He still has work left unfinished.

The apprehension seeps in quietly. 

He hasn’t done enough yet. 

There is much more to accomplish.

But there is never enough time. 

Progress is within his reach.

He has come this far. 

Success lies beyond the horizon.

Why abandon it now?

Yet there is nothing worthy enough for him to take pride in.

No flourishing career nor renowned status to wear on his sleeve.

How can he face their disappointment when they greet him after so long?

When all they see is him meandering along in life?

An echo of courage builds up in his throat.

He calls out, “But I haven’t become the man that’ll make you proud yet.”

Silence fills the void.

Idle curiosity gnaws at his mind.

Then he hears their croon come from afar.

“You’re more than enough as you are”.

A lump lodges in his throat.

How could he be so deluded by affluence?

When all he ever needed was the prosperity that lay for him at home.

A parent’s unconditional love.

Always welcoming him with open arms.

No matter how far he spreads his wings.

They’ll forever wait for his return.

For all they ever wanted was for him to be happy and loved.

For all they needed to know is that their child lives a blessed life absent of strife.

No matter what he chooses to do with his days of living, they’ll always be there.

A home in his heart wherever he roams.

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A piece inspired by a recent visit home.

Day 11 - This piece was posted as part of the 31 Days of Content Challenge that I undertook in March 2022.