Mother's smile

Life has always been unfair to Mama. 

Born premature, into a family with problems.

She had no hope, yet she clinged to life.

She smiled. 

Growing up, she had no money.

Choosing between food or school.

Stomach growling she walked with her broken shoes.

School was her dream.

Married and happy she kept going

but my father had plans called

The American Dream..

My father came and sent for her. 

She had to quit and

Shattered her dreams. 

Yet mama stayed strong, 

and smiled. 

I guess it wasn't meant to be. 

Years later she gave birth to her last son,

4 children to care for, she gave up her job. 

She stayed at home, and still had to choose

between giving her kids food

or careing for herself.

Smiling she bit her lip,

The pain would go away,

she though as she paid for the food.

I grew up with Mama's smile,

Oblivious to the pain it hid. 

Oblivious to the cancer that consumed her.

Now that I know.

I dream... for nothing more but to be like mama

strong, caring, and always smiling. 

My support and joy? Inspiration?

Its no further then

Mamas smile, and Papa's arms.