Growing Pains

Seems like yesterday

that I first saw you

dangling upside down, by the legs

as the nurse held you.

Your tiny fists, clenched so tight

your eyes screwed up, your face turning red

as you bawled with all your might.

How helpless I felt, not knowing why you cried

and wondered how to cope with a tiny life.

Slowly, I got used to looking after you

Slowly, little by little, you grew

Your first words, your first smile,

and your first steps

all cherished with a fierce joy

and a pride so bright

How the years have sped by,

and now when I look at you,

I marvel at how you've changed

Baby fat melting away

chubby limbs growing tall and strong

That sweet little mouth

set in a stubborn pout

That gentle voice

now always raised in a shout

Those huge eyes that glare at me

And I wonder, where's my little baby?

But you're a baby no more

You're growing up fast, that's for sure

But as you discover yourself

and the world

And as I watch you become brave and bold

That foolish pride returns

and the joy I gain

fills my heart with a sweet piercing pain


© 2013 Uma Venkatraman ~ All Rights Reserved