How Long Is It?

By: Vivian Pham, Staff Writer

How long is it since you’ve come home?

How long is it since your last meal with your family?

How long is it since you’ve felt like home

And allow yourself to be surrounded 

with the people you love.

How long is it since the last time you’ve talked to your parents?

How long does it take to notice wrinkles on their eyes?

How long is it since the last time you’ve said “I love you” to them

Before bedtime like you always did when you were four?

How long is it since you’ve hugged someone

As tight as the wave

And as gentle as the forest?

To love and be loved,

To give and be given,

To go and return from the chaos

To be the person you truly are.