Mother

I never realized

how much her words meant to me

I yearned for her praises, her recognition

for as long as I can remember.

I wanted to make her happy

she deserved a good daughter

I can do that, just that.

her compliments speared through me

like the double-edge knife

I’ve tried to become lighter

quieter, better

I can’t live her life

and nor she mine

a dandelion seed must leave their flower

and find her own grounds

to grow.

t.l.