return of the prodigal son

The return of someone who has spent time away doing or pursuing something that was not condoned by those they had left, especially when they are now repentant for their actions. The phrase comes from a parable in the Bible about a son who leaves his father to seek his fortune and returns humbled. Well, well well—the return of the prodigal son. Guess you didn't like that fancy new company that poached you last year, huh?