The Treasures of Being a Mother
She came tonight as I sat alone, the girl that I used to be. . .
And she gazed at me with her earnest eye, and questioned reproachfully;
Have you forgotten the many plans, and hopes that I had for you?
The great career, the splendid fame, all wonderful things to do?
Where is the mansion of stately height, with all of its gardens
rare?
The silken robes that I dreamed for you, and jewels for your hair?
And as she spoke I was very sad, for I wanted her pleased with me
. . .
This slender girl from the shadowy past, the girl that I used to
be.
So gently arising, I took her hand, and guided her up the stair
Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay innocent, sweet and fair.
And I told her that these are my only gems, and precious they are
to me;
That silken robe is my motherhood of costly simplicity.
And my mansion of stately height is love, and the only career I
know;
Is serving each day in these sheltering walls, for the dear ones
who come and go.
And as I spoke to my shadowy guest, she smiled through her tears
at me;
And I saw that the woman that I am now, pleased the girl that
I used to be. . .
--Author Unknown