It was a beautiful spring day. The sun was bright and the breeze was warm. 

I sat on the patio and closed my eyes. A sense of tranquility settled in and lulled me to sleep.

 

I opened my eyes and looked around in confusion. Somehow I was sitting in a magnificent garden.

In awe of its beauty, I strolled along a path, taking time to enjoy the intoxicating fragrances.

As I approached an enormous weeping willow tree, I saw him at the end of the path.

Suddenly my feet were rooted to the ground as if I had become part of the weeping willow.

The only movement was the tumultuous emotions in my heart, swaying back and forth like the branches of the tree.

He must have sensed my presence. He turned and looked directly at me.

Without a word, he turned back to the plants he was tending to.  

Eventually, my desire for his love broke free. 

I walked hesitantly towards him, each step released vivid memories.  

Some were filled with love, happiness, calm, and confidence.

Others were filled with anger, turmoil, pain, and sadness. 

But my inner child begged me to continue, ever hopeful that this time would be different. Maybe this time I would finally find the magic words or actions that would prove his love for me.

As I stepped out of the shadow of the weeping willow, the brightness of the sun intensified. 

I looked up. Coming toward me with open arms was God.  

I ran to him and he held me tightly while I cried. 

As I quieted, I looked at him with years of silent questions. 

He took my hand and said," He is in your life for a reason. There may have been hard times, but you have become the person you are today, in part, because of it. You have learned lessons, become more resilient, and grown closer to me. He too is my child. You must show him mercy, forgiveness, and love. Once you obey this command, he will lose the power to hurt you."

​

The sun brightened again and I stood alone.

This time, I walked with my head held high. The memories had faded. My emotions were transformed into purpose and determination to put things in the past.

When I finally stood next to him, I put a hand gently on his shoulder and said, "Hi, Dad. Let me help you."