Mother's Day Poem

MOTHER

When I was a child

I remember your silent prayers

As you stood above my bed

Followed by your kiss upon my forehead

As I dozed off, feeling loved

While the night blew misty dreams 

Upon my closed eyelids.

When I was a young woman

Mornings were filled with loukoumades, or 

Black olives, feta, paximadia, and coffee 

Your chatter filled the kitchen with a familiar glow

That settled somewhere in my heart 

As I helped clear the table and wash dishes

While the sun’s rays competed for attention.

I remember 

Watching you water your garden lovingly

As if the blooming flowers were your children, too.

I watched you sew the buttons back on jackets 

And darn the holes on the socks.

I watched you give people in need your clothes and even furniture.

I watched you cry when someone was hurt,

And I cried with you.

Your childlike heart always forgave,

Which was a lesson I cherished all my life.

When I was older and had a family of my own

We moved far away, yet you were still dear in my heart.

You gave me advice on child rearing

From the phone, your voice, soothing and soft, 

Laid to rest my concerns, 

Yet you had problems of your own

When Father passed away, leaving you alone.

And now, in the winter of your life, your smile never fades

Always loving, always forgiving, always grateful you are

For even a glimpse of your children and grandchildren

You’ll always be strong, 

You’ll always be loving,

You’ll always be caring,

You’ll always be my mother,

Wherever you are.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Patty Apostolides May 12, 2019