As You Sow, So Shall You Reap

We were babies together, you and I. Then toddlers, teetering, side by side. Learning to walk in life, hand in hand. Balancing each other as we struggled to stand. You never knew, cause I had to be strong, But I feared everyday that I'd do something wrong. A bump on the head, the wrong kind of juice. Am I doing this right? Can't fail- no excuse! Even the best parents are filled with doubt. Am I leaving a scar anytime that I shout? Could I have done more to prepare, and protect? Warn them of monsters, but keep fear in check? Have I been a good influence, or sealed their fate? So many questions whose answers must wait. Then just the other day I looked into your eyes. A reflection of myself took me by surprise. As I listened to you speak, your voice came through as mine. My question was answered- you would be fine. Our struggles in life can leave a deep well. I planted survival and you've reaped it well. Though we've seen dark days, we continue to shine. My story is your's, your story is mine. From you I learned patience, compassion, and laughter. I gained strength and courage that lasted long after. I raised you from child into woman, you see But what I did for you, so you did for me. We were mother and daughter. Though titles belied. For you were my mother, as much as my child. ~NMG