6

I was born in the year she was 27

Still young, feeling old

Married and loved

Life ahead of her

Watched me grow

I spoke, learned to run, played outside

I passed tests, did my homework, worked hard

"Graduated" from elementary school

"Graduated" from middle school

High school and college, to adult

She watched me, pushed me on

Words of encouragement and love

Stronger than the titanium in my body piercings she disliked

She loved me even when I wouldn't love myself

And in the year she was 54, she left

She was born in the year I was 27

Still young, feeling old

Married and loved

Life ahead of me

I'll watch her grow

Help her be more than I could ever imagine

Teach her words, watch her run and play

Help her with tests, homework, show her the value of hard work

Graduate with her through life

See that she becomes a strong adult

With my words of encouragement and love

Stronger than her teenage rebellion I will dislike

I'll love her no matter what, always and forever

And when it's my time to go, I hope to retire in her heart

Just like mine did for me