Gone Take 2

Curtains still drawn.
Bedclothes in a knot.
Abandoned water bottle.
Wrappings from toiletries on the floor.
Mismatched sandals.
Spring break is over.

I fasten back the curtains letting in the morning light.
Strip the bed.
Gather the water bottle.
Discard the wrappings.
Push the sandals under the bed
Awaiting his return.

Take a walk in the quiet morning air.
Counsel a young couple.
Gather groceries for those still here.
Watch my other pitcher in his opening scrimmage.
Dine with friends.
Sleep soundly.

Gone

Curtains still drawn.
Bedclothes in a knot.
Abandoned water bottle.
Wrappings from toiletries on the floor.
Mismatched sandals.
Spring break is over.

I fasten back the curtains letting in the morning light.
Strip the bed.
Gather the water bottle.
Discard the wrappings.
Push the sandals under the bed.
Awaiting his return.

Parents

No one (except God) loves unconditionally like a parent.

Children love their parents, and as they grow older children appreciate parents, and are more tolerant of their foibles, but they still feel annoyed with the parts of their parents that are in some way, well...annoying.

Parents feel some responsibility for their offspring, even their foibles, either by genes or environment, so they are more accepting of those shortcomings, more willing to overlook. When children are still growing up, parents do their best to moderate their children's weaknesses, but at some point when they are full grown, parents hopefully release that project and love them despite those pieces.

Spouses love by choice, but they tend to always be still trying to fix their significant other, thinking that surely this could be better.

So today especially, on St. Patrick's Day, I miss my Irish parents and their unconditional love for me.