The Strength of the Shadow

There were four children, three who were praised, and one who

learned to be quiet. Their mistakes were called growing pains. Their dreams were

watered with encouragement. But the fourth child moved like a shadow, careful not to

hope too loudly. When the fourth spoke, the room stayed silent.

Not cruel, just indifference. The parent grew old. It was the

fourth child who returned, carrying no bitterness. I didn't know how much you

needed me. Love withheld can break a heart, but it can also build a

soul strong enough to forgive.