The Goodbye

Mum and Dad: “Be careful, don’t get into dangerous situations, be smart, use your head, don’t take unnecessary risks. We are really proud of you, really. We love you so much.”

They hug me, a long hug, with a final kiss, and then they let me go. I feel acceptance and trust from them — and towards me, it makes me smile. Feels like freedom. Damn, it’s actually freedom. I leave with a tear in my eye and a smile on my face.

“See you at Christmas… well, maybe a bit earlier,” I tell them.