This is a powerful, touching and vulnerable personal essay that reaches into the heart of the impact that having an absent parent can mean no matter how old you are, how much 'work' you've done or how much time and space you have from childhood. In a poetic style, you share the range of emotions that come and go, from hope and sadness, to anger, frustration and hurt, uncovering the silent need for parental validation and affirmation that all children feel regardless of age. I think this is a piece so many will identify with. A truly impactful piece which will be remembered long after reading.