Part 218. Cats and kids.

When we moved house the first thing our cat did on release was go AWOL. Months later as we were walking through the site of the old colliery tip our cat appeared. We picked her up, took her home, fed her and showed her her old bed. However, a little while later she disappeared. Next morning we opened the door and there she was with four kittens. We were delighted and she was content to stay with us.

Some children run away from home. It is often the case they are found quickly. Some are found and returned home or return home on their own volition. Parent(s) and other family members are overjoyed at the safe return of a child, the running away is forgiven.

One may imagine the joy attributed to the father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son on the return of his wayward son. The joy of reunion with a loved one outshone every other consideration. Jesus tells of unconditional, transformational love for all. A key message sadly lost on bible loving literalist fundamentalists and churches that are not fully inclusive.