Son

 

I didn't know what it would mean 

To have a son to raise.

I didn't know how much you'd need 

Of both correction and praise.

I didn't know how many why's 

You'd ask 'bout everything.

I didn't know how much you'd test, 

Nor how much joy you'd bring.

I didn't know I'd lose such sleep,

Concerned for your well-being.

I didn't know you'd help me learn

Another way of seeing.

I didn't know our souls would mesh 

In a mother-son special way.

I didn't know that there'd be times 

I didn't know what to say.

I didn't know that I would cry 

When things went well for you—

Or when I reflected and recognized

How much, over time, you grew.

I didn't know how hard it'd be 

To let you leave our home.

I didn't know then; I know now you're here 

In my heart, Son—wherever you roam.

 

© 2024 Teresa Miles Kephart