Homecoming

If we had met on another day We might have become friends. We would have spoken carefully as we grew to know each other. Sharing simple stories from our lives Laughing easily. If we had met in a different year We might have been next-door neighbors. And worriedly shared our mistaken attempts To raise our boys to be strong, happy men; Bouncing ideas back and forth Laughing together About our hopes and dreams, to encourage one another. If we had met in a different town Where there was plenty of room. Poverty and prosperity walked hand in hand, and felt no avarice or envy, We would have started to talk as we hung clothes out to dry. While our sons played some game further out on the grass. I would have shared lemonade; you might have offered tea. As our gentle time together would lead to deep trust. and casual conversation. I am so careful now of what I do or say; I would rather not companion at all. You have hurt me; as I suppose, I have hurt you. There have been lies, recriminations, misunderstandings as well. The words of rejection so final and fierce. Leaving no hope for reconciliation, propitiation, or forgiveness. There is little trust left between us as we now stand apart. If only, we had just met for the first time today. Feeling safe and at home in ourselves, We might have become even more than friends. Sister to sister, mother to daughter we might have learned to comprehend. Every expression of sorrow we just could not hide. We would have known us so well, with no judgment or pride. We would have been friends for a lifetime. Until the day that we died. Here; I am offering you an open hand of peace. Believe me, there is no other way this side of Heaven. Chances pass and our time is over. I doubt it ever really began. But I forgive you, and I love you, as I walk my path alone. I am aware that this is not what God had in mind for you and me. It is just what can happen when the day is wrong, the years far apart, and only time and distance can heal a broken heart. So, take my hand and chance a walk with me, I will show you all I have done. I have built an ethereal garden where we can be as one. A daughter and a mother, lost in time and sad company, You will be safe here in my garden, while you wait for me.