To behave to be loved?

Something different. Five somethings different, to be precise.

These are five very short poems I’ve been composing in my mind for the past four months. If you’re a parent, I hope you can relate. If you’re not a parent, I hope they speak to the you who is re-parenting your inner child. I know this is a little different from what you’re used to from me, but I appreciate you being along for the ride.

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I have lived
a hundred days
before the sun comes up.

Breastfeeding

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Reverie. Digital collage. Jan. 2023

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May I have precise awareness
of the values I say I tout
while in practice
act without.

Parenting

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It appears that my tiny baby
has the most immense faith in me
as a mother.
Perhaps more than anyone, his trust in me
is deafening.

Parenting pt. 2

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I don’t want you to think
you have to behave to be loved
but first I must unlearn this
in myself.

Re-parenting

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They say the best gift you can give your child is your presence.
I didn’t know what embodied presence was
until you showed me
because you know nothing else.

Re-parenting pt. 2

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This newsletter is created on the traditional land of the Duwamish People, past and present. I honor with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.