Doors

I took her to the playcentre
And she skipped through the door to play with the toys.
His first day of school
And he smiled as he waved goodbye at the door.
I wanted to say, "Let me come with you.
How will you manage without me?"

So many doors were encountered through the years.
She entered happily, keen to live life to the full.
He strode ahead with a confidence born of encouragement.
I was the one left behind,
Wanting to say, "Don't go without me."

I took her to the M.T.C.
And she hurried through the door, eager to learn.
He bounded up the steps of the plane
And smiled as he waved goodbye at the door.
I wanted to say, "Are you really grown up now?
Have I taught you well enough?"

With newly-opened eyes I saw her as a missionary,
Ready for the world.
His quiet strength
Came from challenges faced and overcome.
No longer did I feel left behind,
But knew we would walk together, as friends.

She carries within her
The hopes of marriage and motherhood.
His dreams and ambitions are yet to be realised.
Doors stand widely open for them,
While mine are gently closing.

The Final Door is closer now.
I see more clearly
It is not a door, but a door-way.
There is no shutting out on one side or the other.

When I walk through that Door-way
I will still watch her with gratitude.
I will still admire his achievements, and feel for his sadness.
Thinking of those who have gone before, I see,
The past and the present are completed in Eternity.

Olive Redmond Feb 2000