I’ve opened the door for you.

You’re welcome to stay.

We can climb trees and eat cherry pie.

I’ll hold you

when you need to cry.

There’s room in my heart now.

And in my home.

I am grateful to have you back in my life.

There’s no need to remain in that big empty place

such a cavernous lonely space.   For a girl your age.

Sometimes the youngest gets left behind.

Do daughters repeat their mother’s sins?

Wrongdoings are hard to see

until the moment has past.

Unmet needs continue to harm others’ hearts.

Creating new wounds.  Alone.  In the dark.

Push repeat.

Another cycle.

The next generation will be better.

We promise.

Again.

I love you, I say.

I’ll wipe the tears from your cheeks,

when you’re crying.

And remember,

I will always keep trying.