As I Watch You Leave..., by Sandra James

24/2/2021

TRAVEL

I want to put my old head
on your shoulders
give you all the answers
crib notes
codes
and guide books for your travels
shield you from danger
wrap you tightly in soft cotton wool
until…my mother’s memory
taps me gently on the shoulder
and asks…
When did you become so wise?
How did you learn?
I had to let you go…

Sue Clayton

25/2/2021 01:55:41 am

All mothers long to keep their children close by their sides, safe from the vagaries of life, but recognise the wisdom of cutting the ties that once bound us to our own mother. Lovely poem, Sandra.

Sandra James

25/2/2021 09:02:58 am

I wrote this one a few years ago when my youngest flew interstate to compete with the state gymnastics team. Amazing how much he grew up in just a few days.

Mary Wallace

25/2/2021 02:34:41 am

Sweet poem Sandra.

Sandra James

25/2/2021 09:04:19 am

Thanks, Mary :)

Jim link

25/2/2021 04:39:00 pm

Letting go is the hardest thing a mother can do.

Nice
Jim

Sandra James

26/2/2021 02:46:49 am

And, fathers too, I suspect. But it's always wonderful when they say or do something that reminds you of how important you are to them even after you've let go :)

Padmini Krishnan

26/2/2021 05:08:41 am

I am yet to cross that stage, but I suppose it is going to be difficult. A very practical poem...nicely written.

Sandra James

26/2/2021 12:22:18 pm

It's a bit like when they go off to school - you're so proud but also a little sad.
I wrote this about my youngest son a few years ago and just a few minutes ago he contacted me (unfortunately we live 250kms apart now) asking for directions as he has to go into the city for work tomorrow. He has a lovely partner but knows he can still depend on Mum no matter what :)

Peggy Gerber

26/2/2021 03:14:57 pm

Beautiful. We let go of our kids but we never let go of worrying about them.

Sandra James

27/2/2021 10:10:45 pm

Very true, Peggy. I have four grown-up children and if it's not one it's another... and often two or three in the same day! It does give one a good understanding of what our mothers (and fathers) went through :)

Candace Arthuria Williams

2/3/2021 05:35:28 pm

Pearls of wisdom passed down from one generation to the next. Sweet memories, Sandra.

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As I Watch You Leave..., by Sandra James

Poetry

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