To My Child

Just for this morning, I am going to smile
when I see your face and laugh
when I feel like crying.
Just for this morning, I will let you choose
what you want to wear, and smile
and say how perfect it is.
Just for this morning, I am going
to step over the laundry
and pick you up and take you to the park to play.


Just for this morning, I will leave
the dishes in the sink,
and let you teach me
how to put that puzzle of yours together.


Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone
and keep the computer off,
and sit with you in the backyard
and blow bubbles.
Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once,
not even a tiny grumble when you scream
and whine for the ice cream truck,
and I will buy you one if he comes by.


Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about
what you are going to be when you grow up,
or second guess every decision
I have made where you are concerned.


Just for this afternoon, I will let you
help me bake cookies,
and I won't stand over you
trying to fix them.


I will think about the mothers and fathers
who are searching for their missing children,
the mothers and fathers who are visiting
their children's graves instead of their bedrooms.


The mothers and fathers
who are in hospital rooms watching
their children suffer senselessly and
screaming inside that little body


And when I kiss you goodnight
I will hold you a little tighter,
a little longer.


It is then, that I will thank GOD for you,
and ask him for nothing, except
one more day................