They say it gets easier
That sleep will come
That they’ll move to solids
And be walking by one
⠀
They say it gets easier
That experience will help
That you’ll find your feet
Forget how hard it felt
⠀
They say it gets easier
They’ll learn to talk
They’ll tie their own shoes
Use a knife and fork
⠀
They say it gets easier
That the fun will start
You’ll have more time
More light, less dark
⠀
They say it gets easier
Your arms will flow free
School bags on backs
Your bed now empty
⠀
They say it gets easier
You’ll feel yourself again
You’ll leave the house more
And remember your brain
⠀
They say it gets easier
And perhaps they’re right
Practically speaking anyway
But it’s not black and white
⠀
Because it doesn’t feel easier
Not emotionally anyway
To have to let go
When you’d love them to stay
⠀
Because it doesn’t feel easier
When they need you less
When you wait for their call
When your mind’s a mess
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Because it doesn’t feel easier
The worry doesn’t stop
They are your whole world
Your heart forever in knots
⠀
Because it doesn’t feel easier
To love so much
To lean into trust
To lose your touch
⠀
Because it doesn’t feel easier
No matter their stage
To see your forever babies
Grow away with age.
⠀
- Emma Heaphy -
Artwork: Art by Chloe Trayhurn