I was born into a world coated
in quicksand, but you
were the vine wrapped
around my waist, yanking me
to the sweet surface with
every misstep.

I was born into a world slick
with swindlers, but you
were the sword that struck
down my doubts, and swept
away the muck that lay
in my path.

I was born into a world dangling
with ruby lures, but you
were the shears that snipped
off the bait, sending me
swimming into the sun
for a tastier prize.

I was born into a world swallowed
in glaring sun, but you
were the one who opened
my eyes, teaching me that
there was nothing to fear
in the light.

I was born into a world veiled
in the mist of dusk, but you
were the one who took
my hand, and with soft fingers
parted the sweeping folds
of black.

This poem is in honor of my mother, who, despite every struggle and burden she endures, has always been there to support me. Happy Mother’s Day!