i was once your home

i feel him slipping 
through my fingers.
the independence, 
the need for 
space and physical distance, 
it is arriving, 
i can take it, 
but oh does it make my heart ache. 
you are growing out of your 
beautiful tender boyhood, 
becoming a young man 
all too quickly, 
and i need to stand back a little, 
as you stretch, 
spread out, 
and find things out for 
yourself.
your knowledge is growing, 
and so is your thoughtfulness. 
the sharpness of your mind 
has ability to draw blood, 
but i will allow myself to be 
cut by you, 
if only to teach you 
i will not go 
anywhere, 
my love is big enough for the 
both of us. 
you will lash out, 
your anger reckless at times, 
but i will absorb it, 
so that you may know the 
safety of 
unconditional love. 
you are growing stronger by the second, 
you will fight for justice, 
you want what is right, fair, 
and is available for all. 
i will be here, 
for you to walk in and out of, 
with your hands, 
your hugs, 
your little kisses that have become 
less and less, 
yet if you are hurting or afraid, 
my arms are always open, 
i will 
never ever 
turn you away. 
i love you, my precious 
first born son. 
you, who made me a mother for 
the first time. 
i will watch you as you go, 
but i am here, 
i am your home, 
if you ever wish 
to 
return.