ALetterToMyDaughter
From the moment you were placed in my arms, I knew my life would never be the same. You squinted up at me, through puffy eyes, and I could feel the questions, already forming in your mind.
The fact that you were my third child, didn't ease the worry in my mind. Would I have enough knowledge, to help this precious, little, life, find her place in life?
Many times I fell short. But through the years, I learned to follow my instincts, and do the best I could, with what I had.
And now you are all grown up, and such a lovely lady. I watch you as you grow, and journey on your way. I know full well, that part of what you are is because of me, and part, in spite of me. You fill my heart with joy, and pride, and give me hope. I watch you rise above my mistakes, and reach beyond what I dreamed for you.
Our lives are now separated by miles and time, but because you are a part of me, and me of you, we are never far apart. I am, and will always be, your greatest fan.
I marvel as life's cycle repeats itself. And as each new face, looks up at me, from souls of old, I find within their gaze, the love from me, and generations past.
So know that all the hard work, and love, which you are giving now, will some day look back at you, through the eyes of your grandchildren.
The key to motherhood is love. So love them...love them when you don't know what else to do. And when you're longing for just a moment (well a week would be nice) of peace and quiet...love them. For all too soon they are grown, and getting on with their lives...and peace and quiet are highly overated.
Barbara (Bobby) Smith ŠJan. 13, 2004. Music from Bobby's Heart & Soul CD. Music & arrangement by my son, Jim Buttrum
