Dear Lanzeo

Dear Lanzeo,

I remember how I was waiting by the phone for that call.

I started over thinking, saying “Will my phone even ring at all?”

It was the last Friday of September and I was still in school.

I kept texting my mom and she just replied, “Pay attention in class, stop being a fool”.

I got home and kept the phone close and next to my face.

My mind wouldn’t be at ease until I knew these last 9 months weren’t a waste.

From the beginning I could tell that this time would be different than the others.

Your mom and I got closer than what we already were, and that wasn’t a surprise to your grandmother.

I had taken a short nap and when I thought I had to press snooze,

I looked at my phone, saw that this was about you, and ran to tell my mom the great news.

We hopped in the car and of course my mom always speeds when she drives,

My blood starting rushing so I closed my eyes hoping that when we were there I would still be alive.

We finally arrived and now it would be time for the long waiting.

Thankfully you came sooner so they brought you in and told us what you were weighing.

You technically weren’t mine but when I saw you I already knew,

That you and I would be close, yeah, we’d be stuck like glue

I had been through this already, nine times to be exact.

When something like this happens, it’s like signing a contract.

You needed excessive love and attention, so as the oldest it would be my job.

We wanted you to grateful and kind, and not a nasty snob.

Over time I’ve watched you grow and there’s nothing that made me so happy.

I’m teaching you to talk and say my name, so I know you’re going to be chatty.

I won’t apologize for that, no I’m not the least bit sorry.

Your mom is going to thank me one day when you’re educated and not sloppy.

Right now you’re two years old and you smile big because you have no sorrows.

You’re in that ‘terrible twos’ phase and although it’s so much work, we will get through many tomorrows.

You still have so much to learn and do, no my work isn’t quite done.You may just be my little cousin, but to me you’re like a son.

Love Always from your Big Cousin,

Angelina Guerra