Being there for her first cold, her first tooth and
those painful earaches, too.

Being there when she smiles and you know for sure
that it is meant for you.

Being there when she crawls and successfully sits up
and the first steps she takes with the aid of a couch.

Being there for Christmases and birthdays and
for the Easter surprises.

And when a broken arm, a skinned knee
or when the chicken pox arises.

Being there for math, for the science fairs
and for the few detentions, too.

Being there for concerts, braces and a prom
that is a much to do.

Being there through the joy and the pain
and the disappointments to name a few.

And for all of the many feelings that life
takes her through.

Being there with pride for her graduation moment
knowing the diligence it took to receive that diploma.

Being there to protect her to guide her
with a love that is absolute.

Because this is who we are
And this is what parents do.