To My Mother

 

I remember feeling so alone those years,

thinking to myself I was losing sanity and place,

often crawling in bed at night with hot tears

streaming slowly down my solemn face.

Sometimes the quilt felt cold,

and other times my frustration was too warm to bear,

and so I’d lay tossing in the fold

of wearing sheets and lonesome despair.

My days were filled with icy rain;

my dreams were filled with untold terror;

my heart was filled with bitter pain;

my hope was thinning narrower.

I felt lost in an ocean of regret,

thinking I could trust no one,

that I was someone the world should forget,

a sorrowful tale meant to be undone.

Then, just as I fell into the darkness,

an endless tunnel, a bottomless well,

I closed my eyes and braced the blackness,

but I’d landed in the arms of an angel.

From that day on you stayed by my side,

holding my hand tightly so I wouldn’t fall,

filling my mind with confidence and pride,

helping me realize my potential and how to stand tall.

You parted the clouds so I could see

the warmth of the sunlight gleaming similar

to the radiance of your aura, so lovely,

and your precious smile ever familiar.

Each night you showed me the wishing star,

that in truth it never left our sight,

and though it may be noticeably far

in the dusky shadow it was forever bright.

You taught me to hear music and dance,

how to heal the world with a little care,

and that fear will come, but take a chance,

that in this harsh life is something fair.

I learned to see colors invisible before,

and to sing the words I painted on my own,

but the most important thing you taught me

is that I’m never alone.

My universe lit with constellations

because you guided me through the shade,

and I wonder for all these kind notions

can any of this possibly be repaid?

You showed me how to laugh carefree,

how to smile and jest happily,

and I notice even when you have places to be

you always make time for me.

I remember when I thought nobody had time

to spare for a girl who had enough of

troubles and chaos and problems sublime,

but you welcomed me with unconditional love.

I found a shelter in your arms,

comfort in your softly sung lullabies,

a place of security from harms,

and encouragement to never stop my tries.

There wasn’t a moment you couldn’t spare

to guarantee I was safe and sound;

there wasn’t a moment you weren’t there,

and I’m endlessly thankful for the blessing I’ve found.

Even now, after all these years,

it’s clear I wouldn’t have asked for any other,

and this time when I cry my tears

it’s because I’m so happy you’re my mother.