Mom's Mission Statement

For my Mom's group, we all had to write a Mom's Mission Statement, something we want to teach our babies as they grow, so here is what I wrote:

When you were born, you surprised us all.
9 weeks early, and oh so small!
3lbs, 3 oz and breathing through a hose,
Your hair, red and curly; your ear, a painted rose.
You were so beautiful and delicate and strong,
You caught the eyes of all of us who watched you fight on.
Most said you were eager to get started with living,
But I knew that hard push I felt was your way of giving.
You saved my life that late July night.
You chose to save us, thinking you'd be all right.
Then, there you lay in that hospital bed.
I watched you every day with fear and dread.
I watched you, I prayed for you, I held you, I smiled and I cried.
And you fought strong, you kept growing, and you survived.

So, six months later, I can finally say we are doing well.
It was a long road to get here - with many stories to tell.
But, before we get to that, I want to pause and talk with you.
Let's slow down - you and I - before we get to all those things we want to do.
There are things I need to tell you; things I want you to know.
Cherish these words, remember them, keep them close as you grow.

First, it is clear to all of us that you are very curious.
And if you can't figure something out, you get furious.
Keep your curiosity - explore this grand world through and through,
But also keep your cool - after all, my love, patience is a virture.
You've got bright beautiful blue eyes that are open wide.
Search this world - make nothing from you hide!
But remember to take your time and enjoy it all.
Each step in life is a miracle - no matter how silly or small!

Second, we can also see that you are happy and bright.
Every smile you beam is like an enormous light.
You love to talk and interact with all of us,
And when we take you out to see people, you never fuss.
In everything around you, you are eager to be a part.
To see this joy and pleasure in you, it warms my heart.
Keep this excitement and happiness with you wherever you go.
A happy life - the greatest kind of life - is the life I want you to know.

Third, you have courage and strength like I have never seen.
You are very independent - you are your own team.
Your body is strong, your mind is sharp, and your courage has no fear.
And when I see you wanting to be your own person already, I think, "Oh, dear!"
This independence, strength, and courage that you have will get you very far.
Use it to stand on your own two feet, blow the rest out of the water, and reach for the stars!
But, Honey, don't use it too much or you'll end up alone.
You could fight so hard that you'd find yourself completely on your own.
Learn to reach out and understand the importance of leaning on others.
People need friends, teachers, family members, fathers, and mothers.
We are all here for you - you have given us a thousand reasons to believe.
But, remember that looking back and asking for help is how you can achieve.

Lastly, there are just a few things I want to impart.
Some are cliche; some come from the heart.
Look both ways before chosing which side of the street.
Keep you head in the clouds and the ground dancing under your feet.
There are no silly questions - ask each and every one.
Investigate, interrogate, inspect, research, and remember to have fun.

Scarlet Rose, eveyone knows how sweet you are.
Remember that we all love you very much.
Remember, you are already a shining star!