The morning chorus will sound your way along the path you take today. Your tiny footsteps will appear along the shores of oceans blue far and wide then get washed away by the growing tide.

Your hair will be blown in the winds of scented meadows and you will tumble and roll in the clover, heather and grasses of brilliant yellow.

Your tiny breath will cause clouds of smoke on a frosty morning and you will puff out circles of laughter as you draw your name whilst still yawning.

Your hand will grip tight to those you trust whilst your path leads from day into night, and your palms will tell you what’s wrong and who is right.

Your path will at times be steep and seem too far, your horizons too hazy, beyond your reach just like that star.

And then you’ll find behind the next bend, resolve and purpose, the greatest of your new friends.

To walk your path is the gift of life and each step you take is one more than others were denied. Walk freely but cautiously through a wilderness we once knew and please forgive those, like me, who’s footsteps went before you and spoilt your view.

Poem for Zadie

Shared with mum’s permission

24th January 2021