My Daughter's Birthday

Today’s my daughter’s birthday And it sends me reeling back; Her life was just a question mark, A code I’d have to crack. There were no clues to who she’d be – How cute or smart or charming, Or whether there might lurk a problem, Possibly alarming. I didn’t know what aptitudes Were tucked away, unbidden, Just waiting for the chance to sprout From where they nestled, hidden. I can’t remember if I’d thought Of how she might excel – And if I didn’t, I suppose It’s really just as well. For progeny surprise us – They unfurl like shiny leaves; And as they grow, we marvel at The tricks kept up their sleeves. And what’s revealed may differ from Our notions, pre-conceived; But often, we’re in awe of what They’ve cleverly achieved. My daughter’s sharp and funny And her singing steals the show, Several pieces of the puzzle That I pondered long ago.