An Introvert's Revolution

Part 3

"What's with all the papers?" I asked Jackson.

"A lot of people heard our story, and are offering us new houses, money, jobs, and food.  Altogether, it equals up to about $1,000,000.  They also were asking us to do some interviews too.  Look, I say we take these offers, but I'm not going to take it without your input." He replied.

"...I think it's best we stay where we are.  Our lives are in a good place, and that can change if we decided to move, or get a new job.  You weren't homeless so you probably didn't realize this; I appreciated everyday, even if I was sick or in pain.  And right now, I am so thankful that God has given me you, and that I'm still alive.  I guess I prefer a  simple life.  I'm sorry..." I responded.

"Riley, I hope you know I'm completely okay with this.  I've learned a lot from you.  I guess I also do prefer an average life, rather than one surrounded by media.  Let's not be snobby celebrities just because we changed the system.  Let's just stay the ordinary people we are at heart," Jackson said with a smile.  "It's getting late, we better go to sleep."

I headed to my room and kneeled on the side of my bed.  I prayed to God, thanking him for the life he's given me, and asked him to watch over Jackson and I. After I was done praying, I snuggled up in my bed and started to drift off to sleep. I eventually dozed off into a blissful sleep.  Then, I started dreaming.

Before I lived with Jackson, my dreams mainly consisted of me falling, or standing on a cliff.  But tonight, I believe it was a message sent from God.

I was alone, walking in a forest.  I reached a temple where two angels floated down in front of me.  It was my parents!  They had a iridescent glow surrounding their bodies.  Halos floating off their heads and they wore heavenly, white togas.

"Riley," my father started.  "I want you to know that we are proud of you and we love you.  We know you think of us a lot.  Just remember, when you feel that you are far away from the one you love, just look up to the heavens and remind yourself that everybody is living under the same sky, no matter how far away you are."

"Let go of all your worries and doubts.  I hope you know that you are stronger than ever, and that we are always watching over you.  Jackson will give you a good life, I promise."  my mom said.  

I gave them a long overdue hug.  I told them I loved them, and thanked them for everything.

"Stay strong," they both said as they began to fade away.  And when they completely disappeared, I woke up.

I looked at my alarm clock.  It read 6:30.  I can't explain in words how relieved I felt to know that my parents are still there for me.  They still support me, love me, and are continuing to watch over me.  Emotions started to flood upon me as I broke down into tears.  

My heart is now whole.  My life is surrounded by loved ones and I intend to keep it this way.  Jackson, my parents, and the homeless have taught me to stay positive throughout life's challenges.  Now that my legacy is fulfilled, I decided to tell Jackson to take the money, and buy houses for the people that helped us.  It's the least that we could do to thank them for the amount of their love, and personal health the sacrificed for me.  They've given me a good life, and now it's time I return it.  

I guess you can say, I fell asleep with a dream, and woke up with a purpose!