I look at myself in the mirror,
Seeing every little detail of myself:
The eyes that have learned to seek creativity,
The mouth that has learned to leak laughter,
The hands that have learned to craft and play.
I see my foundation,
Bold but simple,
Peppered with little characteristics,
Lessons that I have learned.
I see the markings of what you have taught me,
Some little things,
Some so big
That I can barely believe you’re the one who set the example.
I close my eyes and start to think,
Conjuring memories of you,
Drawing up images of playing together,
Looking up to you for answers,
Asking you for help on homework.
Every moment comes back:
Every time I’ve wished to be like you,
Each moment you’ve spent with me.
They all go rushing to my heart,
Filling it with warmth,
Leaving nothing in their wake but gratitude,
Gratitude for your influence.
Comments
If we try hard enough, we can all find something to be grateful for: time spent with our slobbering, furry friends, the food in our pantries, those little silver-lining moments like the first sip of hot coffee on a chilly day. But letting ourselves swell with gratitude for our loved ones is an entirely different experience. It's heartwarming to read about you being shaped by the kindness of another, and I hope they read this soon and learn about the place they hold in your heart. (P.S. I think they will, because this piece has been chosen for an upcoming feature on vtdigger.org, set to be posted in their Life & Culture section on Sunday, 1/28! I'll message you later on to remind you!)
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