Here I am,
Cradling the future in my hands,
Not as though I were responsible,
Not hoping to manipulate it,
Simply grateful to have held it,
To be old enough to recognize it
in what he is.
Awestruck
That so vulnerable a tiny parcel
Could contain so many hopes,
Unfold so much potential,
Attract and reflect such great love.
Keep holding up that blue-veined head
That wants to see,
to know,
to matter.
It needs a little help yet.
Marvel at those fingers,
Works in perfect miniature,
That one day will create beauty . . .
But look!
They already have
Clutched deep in my soul
A still point of grace.
And I am overcome
By smallness.
Oblate Rob Wilson 2021
(Painting: Graham Braddock)