Returning

this land, my earliest paradise, was lost
to me for many years.
i am the prodigal,
though i did not leave willingly.
i return on a pilgrimage of reclamation,
gathering up what has been discarded,
what can be salvaged.
i imagine it will be an arduous task
but am surprised to find it effortless.
my returning opens up a space
inside me.
what is here now is not what i knew
or ever wanted;
nevertheless, i take it to my heart.
i am ready now, i think,
to bear this new reality.
the earth rises up to greet me
like a long-lost friend--or daughter--
enfolds me in her arms and
i drown in abundance.