Eight Days

June 3, 2016

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Eight days I listened for a name.

Eight days marked a passage. 

Eight days the sun set and the moon rose.

Eight days the tide pools drained and refilled.

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Eight days I felt mixed stirrings in my heart ~

of excitement, of loss, of love, of fear, of pride. 

I felt excitement for the moment. 

I felt the loss of a bird from my nest. 

I felt love for my child now adult. 

I felt fear of the future unknown. 

I felt pride as each walked the stage not unlike a young bird lifting off a branch. 

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Each came to life through me, but each is not mine. 

I was merely the first warm blanket. 

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Each I have been privileged to meet.

Each I was fortunate to hear first breath and see first tear.

Each I have been privileged to first touch fingers.

Each I was fortunate to hear first laugh.

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Eight times the same I have lost my footing. 

Eight times I have dressed for celebration,

though sadness I have worn with gratitude. 

Eight times my selfish loss may have shown more than my proud lioness. 

Eight times have I listened for a name. 

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