Somewhere

between sentimentality and truth

between the sound of dishes and the song of birds
between regret and aspiration
between pain and pride
Lies the secret of motherhood.

What shall I say?

How express the gratitude, admiration, recognition
of such a role, ministry, life-long work
creative spirit and
endurance?

I may have loved, taught, even nurtured;

but I could never, ever compare with you.

We may have shared in this creative work,

but you excel!

You demonstrate the patience, deep concern,

and lasting embrace of a task untaught and unprepared;
thrust into it without curriculum or previous experience –
you adjusted to the tortuous changes of our years –

And theirs!

Let them be judges – whether here the two of them

Or in a future world all three –
Let them be judges how you loved and shaped -
How you devoted all your adult life to them.

Let them applaud, admire, yes, embrace

Your patience and your unchanging devotion
To those who, despite their years
Are always children…

Yours and mine.

Mother’s Day 2008 <?>