The Inheritance

My very first memories begin with you, my protector, my sanctuary.

Your guarding and watchful gaze surveying my world.

Disguising the surveillance as play, you were my first friend.

You taught me to laugh, to imagine and create.

You taught me to trust in you and you never let me down.

You quenched my thirst and put my hunger at bay.

You kept me warm and dry, made me feel safe at home.

You held me when I shook at night, until the demons all went away.

You taught me to love and helped me not to hate.

You had patience with me because you saw something special.

You taught me about forgiveness and also self-respect.

You taught me with love and made me feel important.

I wonder during all of those years, if you thought, even for a few moments.

All the time you were investing, was it well-spent? Did it have value?

Did it make a difference? Did anyone ever notice? Did anyone care?

Your questions are answered with a resounding "Yes!"

All of the time, the lessons, patience, love, forgiveness, laughter, as well as the rest.

Are all presently in use, at my home because, when my children came along

I only had my own upbringing to put to use for an example of what to do

I merely did what you did with me, it only seemed right since I loved them so.

They live in a world full of magic and their eyes are filled with wonder

They laugh and play, dream and hope, embracing their world and each other

They know what love is and what it feels like, the warmth and coziness

They have the strength to take on the world and maybe someday they will

They don't scream at night, terrorized by demons under the bed.

At first I was afraid it would be too hard for me to accomplish

But it was easy to do and I had a lot of fun doing it too.

I think the best part of all is, the seed has been sown well.

Someday in the future, not too far ahead, I suppose.

A child or two will enter into existence to new parents.

After the initial excitement has passed, the new parents may worry a bit but then again, maybe not.

Because it won't take long for them to realize, they are already prepared.

With the wealth of knowledge I had, and I've passed it along to them

They will be prepared with everything they will need.

To do what needs to be done…

"The most important job ever"