Mother

She was

     And is

My most treasured memory,

Instilling all that is decent and good.

Gentle hands

     Gentle soul.

Gliding through life on gossamer wings.

 

Wise in her measure, she

Spoke without judgment,

Softly, quietly, never in anger,

Unless in defense of those she called

Family,

In which case she fought

With the heart of a lion.

 

Always near

     In spite of the distance,

Always dear

     To those she adored,

Playfully childlike

     Without being childish,

Quick with a smile

     Or a soft-spoken word.

 

Mothers are jewels,

Honored and precious.

Keep them forever.

You only get one.