Love Lives Here

Look at you now, look how you've grown

My sweet baby boy is now a man

You've started your journey, you've chosen a path

You’re a man with big dreams, big hopes, and a plan

You'll have so much to do and plenty to see

A lot to discover and a few folks to meet

There's at glow on your face, a twinkle in your eye

Your head is on your shoulders and fire at your feet

You’ll go far, my son. Of that, I’m sure

Or maybe you'll stay close, who knows?

Whatever you decide whether near or far

I’ll love you all the same, from your head to your toes

There’s so much I want to tell you, so much I have to say

I can’t find all the words to express

How amazing, how special you are to me

I’m so happy and blessed

I don't have all the words, but there are things that must be said

I write this poem for my son who's full of wit, spunk and charm

Now remember what I tell you, never forget these words I beg:

Love lives here, always, in your mother's arms

My dear sweet boy, you’re starting life on your own

You'll make your choices, march to the beat your own drums

Sometimes things will go right and sometimes they won't

At times, you may find that you're stuck in a slum

You may not always know what to do, but nobody ever does

Should you turn right here? Do you run left there?

Will you stay in or, must you go out?

I won't lie to you, my son, some choices will fill you with fear

But the choice is yours to make and only yours alone

To stand against the tide, or simply go with the flow

To follow the crowd, or take the path less traveled

Mistakes and hardships – they all make you grow

So, whatever path you lead, either here or there

By bus, plane, train, or car

Whatever you choose to do and however you choose to do it

Don't forget these words: Love lives here in your mother's arms

I hope life treats you kindly, O I pray it treats you well

The saying goes, "Work hard and happiness you will find"

This may be true for some, and I hope it's true for you

But if it's not, don't you fret, keep my words in mind

Whatever is true, whatever is fair, and whatever is lovely, think of these things

Happiness may not always last, but neither will despair

Life will get tough and situations may be hard

Sometimes living will have you pulling out your hair

Here is where my poem ends although your journey’s far from done

You'll learn many life lessons along the way, most will do you good but some may do you harm

We've all been there before. Maybe once, twice or a hundred times over

No matter what happens, please remember my words: Love lives here in your mother's arms

From learning your ABC's and flossing twice a day

To finding a life long partner or how to drive a car

Whatever you do and wherever you go; whomever you meet and whatever you love

The storms of life may crash down around you to stifle your laugh and snuff out your charm

Please don't stay down for long. Remember I told you, don’t forget what I say

Whether you live in a mansion, a condo, a house or a farm

From the highest of mountains, to the lowest valleys

Love lives here in your mother's arms