Your Mother's Secrets

by Rochelle Cunningham
© 2008

In your youth, you may not understand
But someday these words in time
Will weigh more than ever before.

Take a moment to look into the eyes
Of your mother. See her secrets,
The quiet whispers that rest on her lips.

If you are lucky – she will unlock this place where you
Are not tall enough to see over. Only she can decide
What hush-hushes are hers.

If she stirs her heart for you to listen --- then listen
These moments are more precious than stories
Untold. Know she has invited you

To a place you may never
Fully appreciate; part of something
You may never understand. Know

That she has been to places,
Experienced many things.
She has lived in ways

That you may come to see her
Differently. Understand her – more deeply. Love her
More freely. For make no mistake,

Some day the gate will surely close. She will stand
On the other side: wave good bye. Did you come to know –
All there is to know?

She’ll be gone – and you left with questions
That can no longer be answered. If you would
Have only looked into

Her eyes. Gather those fortunate days
When she will say: Come sit by my side,
I have something to tell you.