Nana, My Godmother

Nana, a mother 

considered one of my own

The Church bells ring 

as I am christened

You cried and cried

for I was a daughter to you

according to my mother and God

You held me and fed me

At age 4, you taught me to multiply

I stole sips of your coffee

You were my babysitter but more 

You loved me 

We stand at the check out counter 

as you pay, a sweet treat catches my eye

My naiveté takes over; I pocket it

Walking away I show you proudly

 You take my hand and re-enter the store

showing me the difference of right and wrong 

As a young adult I’ve learned 

the hardships and despair that life has brought upon you

Loss of child, abuse, abandonment 

i’ve cried and cried over them for you 

Your heart is as big as the universe 

the wicked use it as advancement 

 I want to thank you for your strength 

your courage, your intellect 

your optimistic mindset

You began to open my eyes to the world before I could walk

I think about you everyday

Ponder the day you cry at my wedding 

When you give me advice about pregnancy and parenting 

We never know how much time is left with a person

17 years with you in my life 

Praying that I never have to live without you

I guess my naiveté still resurfaces once in awhile

you still have more to teach me

Nana, a mother 

My Godmother