Home Is In The Presence Of Beating Hearts

The strong walls I want to be surrounded by

Sometimes I surprise myself by how real My memories make home feel I left years ago to fulfill my dreams Saying goodbye to smiling, Teary-eyed faces Unaware when I’d be back I heard my grandma say, “Don’t forget about me.”

Every time the wind blows against my skin The sun kisses my face I recall those times we set up camp near the river Bathing in calm, clear waters The smell of fresh fruit The taste of our homemade coconut treats Like cotton candy They would melt as soon as they touched my lips

Whenever the power goes out I recall the nights we sat around by candlelight Listening to folk tales, jokes and Stories about family members that I never got to meet

I can picture all the areas where we played hide and seek I can smell burning wood, visualize the whirling dance of the smoke Follow it as it disappears towards the sky A signal that we were about to receive a hot meal. What a treat!

My grandparents’ house wasn’t perfect Despite the holes, broken doors, jammed windows Our foundation was strong Made up of the hearts of loved ones who did not say I love you out loud every time They made sure that we were happy A smiling face was the best reward

It’s time I pay home a visit To reconnect with the parts of me that are still there I’ll show up at the door They won’t see me coming It’ll feel as if I never left

This poem was written in response to the Lifeline poetry prompt “home” by Sahil Patel.

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