Belonging, met in the place
visited briefly, a person who
remembered us, the friendly
face, a welcome home
even when they knew

we had never visited this
place before, a show of kindness
welcoming words, an open
heart, inviting spaces to be still,
not expected to repeat

life stories in all our phases
acceptance met, upon
return, our hearts belonged
loved unconditionally, the
welcome, remains lifelong.

Chrissy Kelly
Care Experienced Poet