The First Grandchild
Birth of My First Grandchild
The birth of a child is a special moment. That of your own children is precious in its own way, but the progression of life; seeing them grow up, marry, and have children of their own is also very special in a different, but equally precious way.
This poem captures my emotions as I witnessed the birth of my first grandchild, and I think probably also that of many others who have experienced this moment in time.
We Are Separate; We Are One
Flesh and blood of my
flesh and blood;
Witnessing your birth,
I feel the embrace
of the infinite circle.
Skin of satin,
eyes of innocent wonder;
You are mine,
yet not mine.
I travel endless corridors
of time
rocking wails to whimpers
and sleep.
Backstory
This poem was originally written when my eldest grandson was but 2 weeks old. Many years have passed; at this publication, he is now but a month from his 17th birthday. This was an intensely personal poem, and it took all these years for me to be comfortable in sharing it.
I was able to be present at his birth, and that of his brother, 5 years later. "Life" however, intervened, and prevented me from being present when either of my granddaughters were born. That made this memory all the more special.
Update: As of this revision, this young man has outgrown his teenage angst, and is now serving in the Army and has been married for a year and a half. I am very proud of who he has become.
© 2010 Liz Elias