Secret for Life

“I have a secret.”

“I’ll bet I know what it is.”

She yanks my ear down

To hear the sound

Of her tiny whispered voice

Making just enough precious noise

To hear her say,

“I love you, Mommy,”

In a voice with a smile.

Then she hugs me awhile.

Her arms wrap around my neck

And I have to check

The tears that well up

Because of her unconditional love.

“I have one for you.”

I know just what to do.

I lift her into my arms

And give her all of my charms.

“I love you Sweet Pea.

You’ll always have me.”

Then I squeeze her so tight

But she doesn’t try to fight

How I hold her close

From her head to her toes.

-Valerie Jean