This is for my youngest daughter, Mallory, who just turned 21.

Someone said today
“She’s so nice to everyone,”
and I smiled in the pride
of being your mother.
I do take a touch of credit
for your kindness,
but, in truth,
it is something you own.

I watch you move about a room
smiling and talking,
touching other people
and I see them sparkle,
so pleased to be sharing
the moment with you.
I would love to take
a bit of credit for
your charm and personality
but, in truth,
it is something you own.

I see your self-confidence,
un-weighted with arrogance,
take you through life’s situations,
and I would be proud
to take a bit of credit
for your assurance,
but, in truth,
it is something you own.

The beauty of your face and form
is only surpassed by
the beauty of your soul and heart,
and I would be blessed
to take a bit of credit
for your countenance.
Although in your face I see
bits of me and your father,
your beauty
is something you own.

I carried you
I cared for you
I taught you the lessons I owned.
Yet, as you stand before me,
compassionate, assured, lovely,
daughter, woman, friend,
I see you are whom you have
chosen to be –
You.
And I am proud.