Inspiration

Grasping toddlers' fingers,
watching as they teeter,
fall - then take their first steps
takes my breath away,
makes me smaller

~and inspires me.

Attending sixth grade
graduations, bursting with
parental pride,
swells my heart
beyond my chest wall

~and inspires me.

Beaming with admiration
when one disabled child
excels in academics-
joining circles of his peers,
brings me to tears

~and inspires me.

Watching as a once
paralyzed teenager
carefully, slowly exits
his wheelchair-
casts away those obstacles

~and inspires me.

Fallen children forging their
positions into manhood,
following unforeseen opportunities-
Only strengthens
my belief in them

~and inspires me.