Where did time go?
It seems as only a few years ago,
excitement filled my heart.
As we discovered our family would increase,
another child to love and nurture…
another chance…another start.
As with a plant…the seed we must sew,
give them love and watch them grow.
Bumps on their heads…as they learn to be independent,
cuts on their knees…praying the blood will cease.
A few minor stitches and a broken arm or toe…
my mother reminded me it’s just part of being a child,
part of being a parent I quickly replied,
for it hurts me more to see them cry.
From tots to teens, what a roller coaster ride,
first we’re up and then we’re down…
Full of emotions…
and off to their rooms they run and hide.
Loud music, computers, and games…
friends constantly spending the night…
Boyfriends and girlfriends…
Days filled with joy and tears,
and sometimes worries lasting until late at night.
For a mother…being shut out is the hardest part,
not sharing the talks, secrets, and late night chats about nothing.
Teen years they finally come to a close,
Thank God…a new chapter of life…a new start!
Young men and ladies they’ve matured with grace,
ready to set out in this world to make their mark,
seeing the world as an enchanted place.
We teach them, prepare them the best we know how,
hoping it will be enough for them to find their way.
The day arrives that we must say goodbye…
a day full of emotions…
tears of joy…and sad ones we cry.
Now the nest is so quiet with the children away,
minutes quickly turn to an hour, and hours to a day.
I recall the times when I held them all close,
setting up at night, by their hospital beds I stayed…
where did the time go?
And why did it disintegrate so quickly before my very eyes?
So many questions…with much time now to search…
If only a few more years…I could take…
Where did the time go?
Leaving behind this emptiness
and within my heart, a dull ache….
