saved

"some people raise children but never mother them,
others mother all of their lives without ever giving birth."


as i watched my mother help liam
climb up a spiny column of metal at
the playground today,
i sat. smiling.
my heart bursting
with gratitude for the selflessness
and unconditional love
she has shown to me,
and now, my son.

there were many opportunities when i was a child
that this woman,
who didn't give birth to me,
could have walked away saying,
"you're really not mine. i need to move on with my life."

but she didn't.
she stuck around.
she made sure i was ok.

she saved me.

she listens.
she lectures when i need it.
she cheers me on like i'm a rockstar.
she reminds me to keep my chin up and keep my glass half full.

liam loves his oma.
and i don't blame him.
hers is a heart of gold and it shines
warmth to everyone who knows her.

i love you, mom.
i am so glad
you stayed.

*quote borrowed from stacy's facebook update. xo