Alone I walk the path near the lake, feeling the warmth of the sun baking my cheeks.

I hear the soft whoosh of waves and the quiet singing of birds.

I am at peace, hoping to feel this joy for longer than a moment.

My eyes draw over the horizon and then land on a mother watching her children playing in a small field of grass.

The scene causes me stop. My heart strains and my eyes burn.

Suddenly I feel the impending pain of being without my mother.

I am away from home, away from her loving grasp.

And for the first time, I feel the warmth of wet tears running down my cheeks.

My eyes burn and sobs threaten to escape my mouth.

I miss my mother dearly.

How I wish I was home in her loving presence!