Mother's Day: My Son's Birthday

My Son's Birthday

by Deanna Lynd

You came into the world fast and furious,

when I held you, you looked up at me with eyes wide and curious.

My heart changed in an instant.

For once my own childhood seemed so distant.

I vowed to do my best, to love and cherish you

and trust your father to do the rest.

From my arms you were taken

back to my cell I was sent

fifteen years will never compare to what losing you meant.

The ache in my heart is so deep,

not being beside you to watch you sleep.

I never knew your smell I could only pick up the telephone

and ask if you were doing well.

Months went by as I watched you grow

through photographs missing all the hugs, kisses,

the love and laughs.

I awaited my fate,

not yet knowing my release date. Time went by

you began to talk and walk on your own

I learned I would not be free until you are grown.

I try to remain strong and pay my debt.

It is an extravagant bill living each day

with the heartache I feel.

Sometimes I pray for death

then I look at a recent photograph

and I am reminded I owe you, if not myself

one more day, one more breath.

Deanna Lynd #Y24235 C1112 Lower

Homestead Correctional Institution

19000 SW 377th St. Suite #200

Florida City, FL 33034-6400

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Women and Prison: A Site for Resistance

is a project of Beyondmedia Education.

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