HOMECOMING

Homecoming is putting your loved ones’ happiness

Over your own discomfort and inconvenience,

Because it feels good and right.

That is familial love.

Homecoming is celebrating the joy of an ex-lover with the new partner.

Wishing them both happiness even when you are hurting inside,

But knowing you’ll eventually overcome the pain.

That is true love.

Homecoming is saying “NO” nicely to friends’ invitations or requests

And not feeling guilty

Even if it hurt or upset them

Rather than saying “YES” and feeling resentful.

That is respect and self-love.

Homecoming is being present.

Sharing others joy, sorrow, pain and struggles,

Celebrating victories,

Crying over losses,

Laughing over mistakes,

Creating memories,

Trying solutions and new things together,

Holding each other’s hands and not letting go,

Supporting each other and not giving up.

That is genuine love.

Homecoming is saying sorry when you are wrong.

Accepting accountability and responsibility,

Instead of defending oneself and blaming others.

Asking help when you need one.

Instead of accusing others of being insensitive, uncooperative or unsupportive.

To say “I don’t know” when you truly don’t know.

Instead of offering answers that will not solve the problem,

Because you are too proud to admit,

You do not have all the answers.

That is true humility.

Homecoming is when people stop judging

And simply allow you to be you.

When people go beyond looks, colors, races,

Backgrounds, may it be economics, education, you name it…

When people are more accepting, open, tolerant and loving.

That is equality.

Homecoming is when people take care of the environment.

Learn to save water,

Conserve energy,

Throwing garbage in designated places,

Practice recycling.

That is love for mother earth.

Homecoming is when people start to listen to one another.

And care for one another.

Seeing the person before you, behind you, beside you…

Not just yourself

Crossing the streets,

Taking the buses

Shopping in malls,

Eating in restaurants,

Running in parks

When one starts to realize and more conscious,

That other people occupy your space too,

That other human beings co-exist and share this planet with you.

That is love for humanity.

Every time these happen, I am home!