To James (and ‘Tasha)

To My Grown-up Son
My hands were busy through the day
I didn’t have much time to play
The little games you asked me to.
I didn’t have much time for you.
I’d wash your clothes, I’d sew and cook,
But when you’d bring your picture book
And ask me, please, to share your fun,
I’d say, ‘A little later, son.’
I’d tuck you in all safe at night,
And hear your prayers, turn out the light,
Then tiptoe softly to the door.
I wish I’d stayed a minute more.
For life is short, and years rush past,
A little boy grows up so fast.
No longer is he at your side.
His precious secrets to confide.
The picture books are put away,
There are no children’s games to play,
No good night kiss, no prayers to hear.
That all belongs to yesteryear.
My hands once busy, now lie still
The days are long and hard to fill.
I wish I might go back and do
The little things you asked me to.
—    Alice E. Chase
From: “The Poems of Alice E. Chase“
[Today, my son James is getting married!  One minute you’re holding a baby in your hands and thinking: “Wow!  I’ve got a son!” and the next, he’s a grown man.  God is great and life is amazingly short!    —     KMAB]
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On This Day In:
2014	Ssshhush, You Are Not Alone
2013	So I Chose Living…
2012	For However Short A Time…
2011	Take A Deep Breath And Continue (Or Not)
2010	Tootsie-Roll Day

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