I have known you all my
life. Do you remember when we used to snuggle up in bed, dreaming of faraway
places and living in a castle full of toys? I remember how we loved going away
to play in the bush behind our house; we were so care-free and happy. Did we
not have the best times gazing at the stars and wondering if an angel would
visit us later? I remember whispering in each other’s ears and talking about
our secrets. We spoke of magical beings, our laughter echoing across the
riverbanks. What about the magic of Christmas, the smell of the tree, the story
about the birth of baby Jesus? I can still taste the litchis and mangoes, their
sweet sticky juice running down our chins and fingers.
Then something happened. Some big people
told us to stop dreaming, to stop laughing and they broke our spell. I started
believing them when they said we were not so wonderful and special. I started
believing them more than you. Sadness overcame me and in trying to protect you;
I chose to hide you and stifle your spontaneity. Gradually your voice became
softer replaced by others full of ‘reality’, warning me of dangers I did not
know existed. But I missed you and every once in a while, I’d allow you to come
back but our fun was short lived.
Our bond became fragile, you were angry and
disappointed. You withdrew your love, I felt abandoned and hurt. Sometimes you
would scream, other times you were jealous or ashamed. You desperately sought
my attention but I chose to ignore you as I did not want to feel your pain.
You did not go away, you could not. You
waited patiently and faithfully for us to reunite.
It’s been a long time...too long. I
celebrate our coming together which feels like a homecoming. I’m so happy I
want to shout and sing! I am so sorry for the lost time. I promise never to let
you go again. I promise to love and protect you. We are one. You are me and I
am you.
Bless you my inner child!
