Usually my appreciation grows, or in some cases starts, when I notice the strain caused by an absence.

I see an eldest sister with deep family conflict and no one to talk to.

The absence of a shoulder to cry on.

A mom who hid behind her children, who were disciplined, for mistakes she made.

The absence of courage.

A family that turns inward sowing lies and division.

The absence of integrity.

Displays of relentless greed.

The absence of ethics.

After emotions reach a breaking point, biweekly shouting matches as a means of communication.

The absence of healthy emotional communication.

Aligning yourself with the most powerful person in the room to receive privileges while turning a blind eye to wrongs committed by the powers aligned with.

The absence of moral character.

No invitation from people you love to people you love.

The absence of care.

In absence, there is undeniable hurt.

Yet as the absence is gloomy and excruciating it makes me more grateful.