I closed the shutters to the window of my soul, hung a sign on the door that read "be back soon." I wandered far and wide, exploring and sightseeing until everything felt like a wild dream. But somewhere along the way, I lost my way back home. I waded through the sorrows of the world, entrenched in heartbreak and absorbed amongst too many narratives. The unattainable dance of perfectionism tempted me; fleeting ideals consumed me. Spread too thin and painfully invested in the woes of the world, I lost the ability to define myself.
I spun in circles until I backtracked. Listened carefully, called home by the breadcrumbs of myself I had left behind. I found wildflowers growing where my footsteps had carried me, reaping the beauty I had helped sow, seeds of laughter and kindness shared with strangers I met along my way. Tears poured forth from the wells of my eyes as I cried in gratitude; realizing that even upon being lost, Light guides those who let it.
I pushed further, and bit by bit I felt the warmth of the familiar, like a faint flush of the cheeks. Flowers still in hand, sharing the same wish to be rooted once again, and I finally understand what I've been missing for so long. For the first time in a long time, I felt whole.
I opened the door and stepped back into my soul, dusted off my heart and pinned it back to my sleeve. Returning home has never felt so right, like spring cleaning with the windows open, fresh air sweeping through the house as music fills each and every room.