So many years I spent,
refining the pieces of me.
Stubbornness that creates resolve, but is open to new ideas.
An ability to BS just about anything, but the wisdom not to.
Then you came along and broke me.
Not broken, but broken apart. Into pieces.
I was shattered in those early months.
Sleepless nights.
Uncertainty.
Drowning in a loss of confidence.
All of the pieces just floating around,
unattached,
crashing without direction
or something to brace themselves on.
And I began the journey
to remake myself
while building your foundation.
I saw your tears
and broke my peace,
giving you the big piece
and keeping only enough to regrow.
I saw your fear
and broke my safety.
I saw your hurt
and I gave you my heart.
As you grow,
I continue to break off new pieces.
Empathy, patience (a frightening thing to give away), kindness, determination, resilience.
But I have learned to carefully rebuild myself.
In the wisdom of age,
learned experience,
and authenticity,
I have found the pieces to nurture,
so I have more to offer you.
And as you grow,
I am so filled with pride
to see you extend kindness,
show empathy,
embrace difference,
and think for yourself.
I love how you have nurtured the pieces of me,
as they become you.