To My Mom

All through
the years
you cared for me
and wiped
my nose
and dried
my tears,
you washed
my clothes
and scrubbed
my neck
and lectured me
and gave me heck.
You outlined life
and helped
set goals
and showed
the way
by how you lived.
You held me back
or drove me on
inspired me when
hope was gone;
always if
I needed you,
I found you there,
a critic true.
You made me angry
lots of times
but all the same
your words
of truth
showed true
and burned
the ages through:
a shinning flame
to light the way
and strengthen me.
Oh mother mine
your prayers for me
have brought me through!
The burdens you
have helped me bear
the love you gave
and joys to share
and comfort that
I know you care.
On Mothers Day
it’s not enough
to tell you that
when things are rough
your prayers and words
have kept me tough
to handle praise
and bear rebuff.
It’s good that
there is Mothers Day
or I might yet
neglect to say
that which I think
and feel all year,
how much I really
love you, dear.
Have a happy
Mothers Day!

~written by Lucille Falk Miller for her mother
on Mother’s Day © 1977