Tuesday, November 3, 2009

For One More Day

I came across this poem on the Internet recently and it affected me deeply. It's one that all mothers need to read often, regardless of the ages of their children. You may have already seen it, but even if you have, it's worth reading again. Perhaps you know a busy young mother you can share it with whose heart it will touch and make a difference in her -- and her child's -- day.

I wish I knew who wrote these beautiful words of wisdom so I could acknowledge them, but the source indicated that the author is unknown.

For One More Day

Just for this morning ... I am going to step over the laundry and pick you up and take you to the park to play.

Just for this morning ... I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

Just for this afternoon ... I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

Just for this afternoon ... I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck -- and I will buy you one if he comes by.

Just for this afternoon ... I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

Just for this afternoon ... I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

Just for this afternoon ... I will take us to McDonald's and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

Just for this evening ... I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.

Just for this evening ... I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

Just for this evening ... I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.

Just for this evening ... I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.

Just for this evening ... when I run my fingers through your hair as you say your prayers, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.

I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly ... and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.

And when I kiss you good night ... I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask Him for nothing, except maybe ... for one more day.

12 comments:

The Quintessential Magpie said...

That is so lovely, Janie! I adore this.

It reminds me of my friend Jen who just wrote that she and her husband were supposed to go work on the house they are selling when her little boy made it clear that the weekend was time for them to be together as a family. They said it was a wakeup call and that they spent the whole day doing fun things with their little sons. It might mean more work the following week, but they are glad they did all of those things. Their boys are the cutest little guys you ever did see! Just dolls!

XO,

Sheila :-)

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Oh, and I think this could also be applied to friends and even husbands. Take the time NOW to celebrate those you love in life.

Karen at Nittany Inspirations said...

A beautiful sentiment that we all should follow.

Stacey said...

Pass me the kleenex please. :)

RachelD said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEETPEA!!!

Just dashing in to add my best wishes---I hope you a bright beautiful sunny day, filled with the sunshine that you disperse so effortlessly and gladly.

Many, many more of the same!!

rachel

Deb said...

Beautiful....

Unknown said...

Beautiful poem Janie...thanks for sharing!

Donna said...

I cry as I read this! When my daughter was diagnosed at the age of 10 with Muscular Dystrophy, I tried to take advantage of every moment we had together. I always said I would have NO regrets. She passed away in July at the age of 29 and I treasure EVERY moment I had with her. This is so true! Take advantage of every moment you have with your children!
Blessings,
Donna

Beth at Aunties said...

I came by to wish you the happiest of Birthdays, and you once more stirred my soul.
This is a wonderful and big reminder. I loved all the sentiments and feel I need to step up a little with my little ones. I guess my little Sam and I will go to the pet store after all today.

HaPpY, HaPPy BiRtHDdaY!!!

~♥

Pat@Back Porch Musings said...

This is beautiful Janie! Thank you, so much for sharing it!

Beth at Aunties said...

We did go the pet store and had a great time. Now a cute 7 year old just has to have a finch for Christmas!
Would you come over and share some of your secrets with me?
~♥
I hope you are really celebrating!

Dare To Be Different said...

Oh my...how beautiful! Please pass the kleenex to me too. Thank you so much for sharing! I know I will be holding my little girl a bit tighter tonight.