© Kathie Rataj Mayo

I walk to remember
    the steps you'll never take.
I carry you with me
    as I firmly plant my feet.
Our trek started long ago,
    before my belly swelled.
You were a love that grew-
    like butterfly wings that beat.
Your gently flutters then became
    kicks upon which I would dwell.
And I would talk to you, sweet babe,
    about the world you soon would meet.

The sun always shone upon us then-
    when you were in my womb.
And I was eager to show you the world
    that would have been your home.
How you'd have loved the sun shining-
    blue skies without a cloud.
The autumn leaves turning-
    the snow falling all around.
The flowers in summer-
    would have filled your eyes with smiles.
And the rain that might have fallen
    would have caused you great surprise.

You would have traveled far with me-
    holding me by the hand,
And I'd have shown you all I could-
    more that I can imagine.

You hold my HEART tightly now,
    as though we're holding hands.
How far we've traveled, little one-
    and my life with you has been sweet.
For I carry you in my heart,
    as I firmly plant my feet.