We guide our children every day

They savor every memory 

But we can grow from words they say

 These are her words, my Morgan Lee...

A quiet night just months ago,

 I tucked my daughter into bed

What happened next, I couldnt know 

 How much would change with what she said

She told me, "Mom, I'm proud of you

I know that you have had it rough."

I said, "That's just what mothers do."

She said, "Not every mom's this tough."

"Oh yeah, just look how tough I am,"

I teased, referring to my tears.

"Because of you, and Dad, and Cam

I found the strength to face tough years… 

And that's when she looked up at me

and tears began to fill her eyes

 much more than curiosity

Is what a look like that implies

I sat down and I held her hand

My full attention was required

I told her I would understand

With apprehension, she inquired...

•
•

“Mom, I know I'm only nine,

But I'm still old enough to know

When Auntie Kelly's on your mind,

And you try hard so it won't show

Since I don't mind, it might be good

I want you to, I won't feel bad

Tell me about her if you could,

I want to help you when you're sad

Because, I think about her, too

I really wasn't all that small 

She'd sing and play guitar with you

I taped her picture to my wall

Her hair was black like ours, and long,

And she had so many tattoos 

She told me I was brave and strong 

A memory I'll never lose 

I know I cried when she moved out 

 I guess I was just small before 

Please don't be scared to talk about 

When all I want is to hear more.”

•
•

It left me stunned to comprehend

The wisdom that my girl possessed

And she would hurt when I'd pretend,

Deserving truth, I then confessed

I opened up about my sister

Things I've tried to hide before

I told her just how much I missed her

And how each day I miss her more.

With wide eyes, she sat and  listened

Took lessons from all that she  heard

Her words that night were on a   mission,

So she hung on every word

Although she may not be aware

or know the weight of words that night

The greatest gift beyond compare,

is that her heavy heart's now light