A Mother’s Love

The plastic tube supplies life-giving air
To a woman I’m proud to be her heir
Her once black hair, now turned gray
A stooped back from years of play
She was once young with dreams abound
Now older and brittle begging death’s rebound

For this woman carried me once in her womb
I felt safe and secure within my cocoon
She carried and played with me till dark
Never tiring or disapproving, always a spark
She was once young with boundless energy
Now more weary with imposing lethargy

This woman who sacrificed herself for me
Never asking repayment except a ride on her knee
Culinary delights cooked to perfection
Food’s aphrodisiac for my protection
She was once young and beyond suspicion
Now encumbered with a terminal condition

Carpools, baking, and a deck of cards
Sandboxes and swing sets defined our yard
Patience and teaching that would astound
Confidence instilled on a pitcher’s mound
She was once young without regret or fear
Now facing death with nary a tear

Dating, marriage, grandparents to my kids
Nature’s way of rewarding precious invalids
Childhoods replayed with succeeding generations
Sacrificial gifts without expectations
She was once young with opportunities galore
Now ready to pass the torch once more

I stand here below her resting place
Remindful of her style and grace
I'm wiser now and can finally let go
No longer searching high and low
She will always remain young in my heart
A mother's love never keeps us apart