When I was young, Mother said, I was just like you.
I had the same long hair,
the same dark eyes,
the same tough skin.
And I acted just like you.
I was carefree.
I was irresponsible.
I was ignorant.
No, I’m not insulting you.
I remember feeling as you feel
And knowing what you know.
And now that I’m old, I am as you will be.
Wiser.
Calmer.
Stronger.
But if I hadn’t been young, I wouldn’t be wise.
I wouldn’t be calm.
I wouldn’t be strong.
If I hadn’t stayed out ’til dawn broke,
Or slept until noon,
Or let my hair fall where it pleased,
I wouldn’t have learned how to love you so much.
I love you so much.