“Every parent is at some time the father of the unreturned prodigal with nothing to be done but keep his house open to hope.” – John Ciardi
I am one of those parents and I know many others. It isn’t always a sad thing, not always an argument or drama that has led to the child being away and uncommunicative. Sometimes it is that child inventing themselves, and the only way they know how to do it is on their own. Maybe it isn’t that the parent is too controlling or overbearing. Maybe it is that the child is too weak, too easily led and they know it. They are being courageous in stepping away. The child in them wants to stay with their parents, they want the protection and love. But they know they won’t find their own strength inside that home, they must venture out and find it where they will.
It isn’t easy for a parent to watch this. They want to protect, they want to guide, they want to participate. And they want to be loved. But to get the true love of an adult child coming back to you after their prodigal journey might just be worth it because you will have a truly unique and real person in your life, one you helped create not only by protecting and raising, but by letting go as well.
I don’t mean to downplay the trauma and hurt and fear that can accompany a child’s departure. I have had that in my life and it is hard. But one can have hope if they choose. Maybe a blind hope, maybe a well reasoned one, but hope nonetheless.
Many thanks to all who came to my opening last night. And special thanks to those who bought the 5 pieces. If you are interested in seeing which ones are still available, go to my website and the ones that are sold will be obvious. Absorbent Ideas Exhibition Don’t delay, buy the one you want!
An even greater thanks to my wonderful family! Linda, who made such yummy goodies, Chelsea for doing the same and playing guitar and singing, and Caitlin, who did heavy lifting and table organizing for me.
Drawing © 2022 Marty Coleman | napkindad.com
