HOUR 11

NATASHA

When I was expecting

my first child,

I worried through the nine months.

I imagined every bad scenario

After her birth, I counted her fingers and toes,

and listened to her breathing during the night.

 

Three months later, I was pregnant again.

I didn’t have time or cause to worry.

My first child was perfect.

Natasha was born with

Downs Syndrome.

My world collapsed.

My life will never be the same.

I’d never be happy.

What had I done wrong,

to deserve this?

The first few months,

I am ashamed to say,

I was numb with self-pity

 

Natasha was a sunny, happy baby,

only crying when she had to.

Her eyes lit up when she recognized me,

her mouth opened in toothless smiles.

I couldn’t resist, I fell in love.

 

Natasha has grown into a lovely

young woman,

independent, compassionate

and bright.

People are drawn to her

and automatically smile.

Her strength is visual memory.

She reminds me which side

the gas tanks are in the cars.

She picks my purse when

I absentmindedly leave it.

She anticipates our needs.

When we cough, she runs for water.

The beds are made

every morning,

and our clothes folded.

She’s a gift, a special blessing.

We thank God every day,

that He chose us

to be her parents.