For Okyra

Not too long ago
I commented to friends
That I was so very sorry
That I never had kids
To celebrate Christmas with,
That there weren't any friends
Or loved ones
Who shared my love
For this most wonderful time
Of the year,
Who understood perfectly
The joy to be had
In simply being together
Regardless of whether
Gifts and/or hugs
Were exchanged.
Then, I answered a call
Rising up from within
My soft and tender heart
and I agreed to sponsor you
Through a child welfare organization.
They sent me your picture
And I gazed down upon
A beautiful, laughing little girl
With a head full of braids
Tied up with bright multicolored
Pony tail holders.
Instantly I fell in love with you
And you became the child
I never had.
Though you live far away
I can endeavor to spoil you
With cards and letters
And the occasional surprise gift;
I promise I will always
Encourage you to grow strong
In integrity and spirit,
Using them to lift yourself
Out of the poverty
Of your youth.
I promise that I
Will always be here for you,
Watching proudly
As you grow and become
The amazing woman
I know you can be!