First

The night you were born

You found a place in my heart

And one of the best loves

Ever began to start.

I held your small body

Close to my chest

And vowed to protect you

From all of the rest.

The love started out tiny

A beginning- no doubt

But I knew it would grow

To the largest amount

Your humor makes me laugh

Your hurting makes me cry

So many hellos,

Too many goodbyes.

I watched you take your first steps

Unsure and unsteady

And the minute you needed it

Assistance was ready.

I could have taken your hand

And never let go

Because deep in my heart

I don’t want you to grow.

You could stay like this

So small, so helpless

But holding you back

Would only be selfish.

Your first words came soon,

Mama, Dada, and please

And now so many of your words

Are directed at me.

Never stop speaking

Whatever you feel

Because you will go places

That no one else will.

I love you so much

At your best and your worst

And when you get where you’re going

Don't forget who held you first.