The prodigal son was impetuous, selfish, self-centred. He wanted it all and he wanted it now. He stupidly squandered all he had – his wealth, his talents, his gifts. Deserted by his fair-weather friends, he spiralled into despondency, left to his own devices, meagre though they were. Humiliated, driven to despair, scratching through the mud for food, he likely considered suicide as the way out. Yet, at his lowest ebb, his thoughts turned to home. Coming home is the essence of being and belonging and in Silver Linings, Terry Lees highlights that it is a lifelong struggle – this desire to return home. And yet, the father is always there with his total, unconditional and abundantly generous love.