Ripening

I don’t know who you are.
I look at you every morning,
I kiss when you let me,
I steal a hug when you are mellow.

I called you my sunshine
when you were little,
a smile that made my life worthwhile.
Is it because of me?
Have my burdens sunk into your heart?
Have I managed to teach you
how profound every day is
that you forgot to smile?
I wish I could take it back,
I wish I could sing with you
and dance in our living room,
swirl you around,
as I did when you held onto my skirt.

Maybe tomorrow
when you cradle another life
close to your heart,
you will become a child again
my serious daughter.