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He's Still My Son

I cuddled my baby until he took his first few steps
And began to exercise his new freedom of choice,
I heard him babble words like “ma ma” and “da da”
Years before he developed a man’s voice.

I lengthened the cord when he desired to run free
And monitored his activities and friendships, too
I trusted wisdom and instruction to guide him
Even in situations that were brand new. 

I cheered when he participated in sporting events,
Both at practice and games, I did what proud parents do.
I encouraged him through disappointment and losses
And his joyful response was, “Mom, I love you.”

I listened to the things he said no matter where or what
And embraced him when he was sick or sad 
I shared my life stories to motivate and inspire
But when I let go of the reins, he was so glad I got mad.

I cried at his high school graduation 
And waved farewell when he joined the military.
I beamed when he clicked his heels and saluted. 
What a handsome man in uniform he turned out to be. 

I sent care packages from time to time
Just to ensure that he was eating right.
I asked my Lord to protect my child,
Each day when I prayed—and each night.

I stockpiled memories before he went away
And rejoiced at hearing news of the battles they won.
I pacified all my concerns with hope   
And longed for his work on the battlefield to be done. 
 
I know that a child is a precious gift from God,
And I did my best with the son placed in my care,  
God gave him to me, and let war take him away….  
He’s still my son, and there’s much more I could share.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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Hill Avatar
September 24, 2025 at 12:24 AM
Gloria, I wrote of my son so I was anxious to read about yours. I am so foolish because mine is tucked in 20 feet away and I miss him. Your poem, I read it 3 times letting the tears flow for you and your boy. I loved your poem, that is undeniable, but it was more than that , it MOVED me Gloria. I will not waste anymore of the tiny moments that we have . I wish I could bring your baby back, I really do but for what it's worth, you may have saved us.
Lowe Avatar
January 27, 2022 at 8:13 AM
Beautiful, Gloria. Thanks for the "tears of joy" of likewise similar keloid memories. Peace and Love.
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:02 PM
Hello Millard, I am soooo sorry for your loss. May God bless you this day is my prayer. Thank you for your comment.
Marcum Wong Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 7:47 PM
A warm welcome to Poetry Soup. I am so sorry for your loss. I can relate as I lost my son this past July. He was not a soldier but a father and husband of twenty years, at 44 he is gone. Your poem expressing your life and love for him is very poignant but lovely. There are no words that can relieve that kind of pain. Bless you, Connie
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:04 PM
Hi Connie, thank you for taking the time to comment. I am sorry to hear of your loss. It is my prayer that the pain is less severe as your grandchildren mature and remind you of your dear son.
Fenn Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 4:43 PM
So poignant! I’m so sorry for your loss of your son. No one should have to go through that. May God hold you tenderly in the palm of his hand.
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:05 PM
Thank you so much Jennifer. What a beautiful sentiment!
Peck Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 12:49 PM
I'm so sorry about your dear son. We raise them in love and then they leave ~ that's what children do. Your poem is a lovely story of your love.
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:06 PM
Thank you so much for your kind words.
Moemise Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 11:20 AM
Very beautifully written
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:07 PM
Thank you so much, Maria.
Anaya Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 8:31 AM
Gloria, your poems came to me, and I am so glad they did! You're a beautiful mother to a hero. Love your poem
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:08 PM
Thank you so very much for your encouraging words.
Deslippe Avatar
January 25, 2022 at 7:31 AM
Gloria, your son was raised by a very special mom and than became our hero. Your poem his more than a poem it speaks deeply from the heart. Truly beautiful writing. Thank you and I hope to read more of your wonderful talent.
Mitchell Avatar
February 20, 2024 at 9:01 PM
Hello Catherine, thank you for your comments. I have not visited this site for some years I see. I do apologize for the delayed response.
A  Avatar
March 26, 2016 at 2:47 AM
Gloria Shell Mitchell, Welcome to Poetry Soup. It will be a delight to read and become familiar with your poems in the future. As for now, I will greet you with the same smile others passed when I first joined the soup. Wishing you and your poetry the best. I hope you get to meet all the nice poets around here STARTING with me- SKAT :-) Please drop a hello and tell me a little about yourself if you wish. I would like to be your newest poetry soup "FRIEND" Hugs* SKAT
Mitchell Avatar
March 26, 2016 at 8:43 AM
Thanks so much for your warm welcome. It's nice to know I made a good choice. I look forward to being an active member.
A   Avatar
March 23, 2016 at 4:34 AM
Gloria, Welcome to Poetry soup, I hope you enjoy the community. Here, you will find friendly poets who enjoy supporting one another. I myself, enjoy reading and commenting those who want to be read. The only time I give constructive criticism is when a poet desires it. However, if for some reason the poem is not my field I will guide you to someone who is more qualified than I. Stop by and read one of my poems if you like. My poems are not perfect, but I have a feeling you might like one. I encourage you to check out the contest page and read to receive comments. Tell me a little about your poetic skills if you like. It will be my pleasure to follow and read every poem you post from here on :) We are Lucky To Have you. Your New Poet Friend @-> LINDA <-@
Mitchell Avatar
March 26, 2016 at 9:06 AM
Hi Linda, Thanks for your offer to critique. I am Growing Glo in poem writing. I will check out the contest page as recommended.
Mitchell Avatar
March 26, 2016 at 8:47 AM
Thanks a bunch! What a terrific welcome! Looks like this site is live. I'm already glad that I chose it.
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