Back Now
I missed most of my nephews’ young lives by
living too damn far away. But I’m back now.
I’d like to believe I’m in that bend of the arc
of returning—ah, Campbell’s Cosmic Dancer.
I’m aware that rings heroic while the truth
may be it was simply time to come home.
One thing I’ve noticed about my nephews is
their rush to hug me when I arrive and their
rush to hug me just before I leave, as if they
missed most of their odd uncle’s life and
are nervous he might up and fly the coop
again chasing the breaded crumbs of myth.
They’re still little boys in the ordinary world.
But soon they will begin their bend toward
becoming and while hugs may remain the
rush won’t be there, that happy spark that
melts their old uncle’s quiet western heart.
Rush or not, I’ll be here as the special world
cracks open and calls them. For I’m back now.
A beautifully written love story. Living miles away from the young ones is difficult but when you get to see them, those hugs are joyous!
Gosh darn, these are good, week after week.
Lucky boys.
But I don’t give luck the credit.
Know your heart wants to burst at times over sadness and hopefully these hugs smiles ease the pain some. Know your Mom and Dad are glad to have you much closer also!!!
My young grandsons live across the country from me. As I read your words I could see them running and hugging me as I come in their front door. Covid has messed with my travels and they’ve grown up and I’ve grown old(er). I can feel their arms wrapped around me. I hope I never forget.
Oh John…..it is good to come home, indeed. Nothing can replace an in person hug that surprises. My oldest grandson turned 19 today and lives with his parents three hours away. When we were together at Christmas he held on to my husband in the sweetest embrace as we said our goodbyes. Praise God for those ‘happy sparks.’