A Mother

dedicated to my mother, my friend

A mother is a friend for life.

She grins and bears the tears and strife.

Her heart is where her children are.

Her thoughts are with them near and far.

She cares for baby young and small.

She cleans the food thrown on the wall.

She combs hair into ponytails,

And makes paper planes and boat sails.

Her soul is pained during the years

Children wish to forget their fears.

She sees them following their heart

And hopes that soon they will not part.

Her words are full of love and hope

When in the world her child should grope.

She laughs away the silent tears,

And remembers the golden years.

"But mother dear, " says little one,

"the fun has only just begun,

For 'round the corner, in the bend,

Is the place I call you friend."

Friends for Life-- K. Leigh