Why, Grandma?

Little Jude walks home Fearing the unknown For a project was assigned that day That will change his life forever To describe Jude’s home. Can he even call it a home? Yes, it may be big, but happiness is not known. When he asks his grandma, she just sighs. “Jude, there’s more to that than you realize.” She starts to say the truth That until now has not known of Jude “You live in a mansion, yet you are not rich.” Jude reels away, shocked by this revelation. “Happiness departed long ago before your dad could even pitch.” “Don’t think this is your fault, Jude, because it’s not. You see, your granny isn't as perfect as you thought.” “We once lived in a real home, a small house far away. Some kids had two dads or three parents or lived in a house and didn’t have to pay. But that was long ago, you see, This magic called diversity, That if not stopped would have had poverty socked. Sadly, my father became mayor. He was a bad man, Jude, and would never be fair. Soon, our town was diverse no more You were either rich or poor Who was this havoc-wreaking policy’s biggest supporter? Me. I took charge, Into innocent homes did I barge, I demanded rent, Or those people were sent Away Did it really do any good at the end of the day? No. When I realized that, I had to go I took a train, Called Jude, your name, And arrived here. Oh, the welcome was not dear. For I found that now, Wherever I go, The curse of riches follows me, Lo and behold.” Jude gets up From his chair And asks “Why, Grandma?” “You should’ve cared.” She nods. “I know, Jude. Because of my choices, a monster stalks me, called regret, But now you have inspired me to stop sulking and stop being upset. I will be kind, and always know, That a big house with four walls does not mean home. That home is love that does not sway And a mansion is a house, not a home every day.” Jude walks away, A smile on his face, For he now knows. A home is where joy is never alone, and love is shown. A home is wherever your loved ones are. Be inspired, take Jude’s pledge, And promise that: You will be kind, and you’ll always know, That a big house with four walls does not mean home. That home is love that does not sway And a mansion is a house, not a home every day. That some houses may have stories or a secret history, But a real home is happiness, the true place to be.