Ode to My Daughter

by Maria Tai (she/her)

Years pass
I can’t see her clearly
The memories are further away
She is just a feeling now
My mother.

All my layers
Bound tightly
To cover shame
And loneliness
Underneath there’s hope
And strength.

I can see her clearly
She’s a grown woman now
My daughter.

I reach out
Take my strength
And keep it close
For when you are lonely
And afraid
I will be gone
And your memories will fade

There was no guide
No comfort
It’s a lonely journey
I tried my best
Always.