The Prodigal

When I'm lost
I don't always
know that I'm lost

but sometimes I do

like a butterfly
hovering overhead
self-seeing
feeling pity for
my waywardness
memories fluttering
to moments of a
peace-filled existence
that was lost
due to lack of diligence
a waning watchfulness
supplanted by a
pride-filled nothingness

but even so

when I'm lost
it is a grace
to know that
I am lost
and gain hope
in the waiting
for myself
to come home.

***