Dear Ma

I was the number eight grandchild.

Not in the streets with my brother running wild.

Into this world, I was brought in,

You gave me love like the other kin.

You treated me like an individual.

Although at times I acted like an imbecile.

You never called me out my name,

Even though at times I went insane.

I feel like the day that you spanked me,

It helped mold me into the man I was supposed to be.

But when you made that phone call,

And told me about the disease that would take its sprawl,

Across your mind, body, and soul.

I never knew the extent it would take its toll.

But that phone call haunts me,

Because I didn’t know what it would be.

It was the day you told me something very hard.

To understand what you were saying, I can’t discard.

You didn’t say it, but you said goodbye

But I don’t want to sit back, be sad and cry.

I’m sorry that it happened to you.

I wish there was more that I could do.

I’m glad you are still with us.

Maybe it’ll give us more time to discuss

Our hopes and dreams and goals and whatever else we got going on.

But the day we lay you on the lawn

I promise to recite a word to say so long,

But I promise I’ll stay tough and strong,

And continue the legacy that you built.

So, we wouldn’t let your words wilt.

I’ll never tell you goodbye,

Cuz I want your words to amplify

The greatness you gave the next three generations.

Thank you for giving my family these solid foundations,

And may you enjoy the rest of time,

And smile so big, it should be a crime.

I can’t bring myself to say adieu,

Because I will always love you.

Thank you, Ma! For everything!