THE MOTHER OF MINE

To my dearest Grandma > *Allocasuarina luehmannii, known as one of the strongest trees in the world, symbolizes the strength, resilience, and enduring bond I share with my grandmother. Just as this tree withstands time and storm, so too does our love—rooted deeply, standing tall. * Have you ever noticed me, The mother of mine— I’ve always worried about you, most of the time. I called you “Mother” instead of “Grandma,” For that word alone comforts this aching heart. Have you ever wondered why I never asked If you were okay—if the days felt too fast? I assumed you were strong, as you always seemed, So, I offered laughter instead of questions or dreams. Have you ever thought that I don’t care? But I do—I always have, I swear. I know of your whispered prayers at night and dawn, Shielding us from evil, guiding us on. Your hopes for my future— They don’t scare me. Your expectations fuel my ambition. The mother of mine. Have you ever feared I would leave you behind? When the future unfolds in mysterious design— Love, life, and time may drift like sand, But you are my love, the one who still stands. Though age may come, unkind and cold, Our bond is sacred, worth more than gold. God promised us roots like *Allocasuarina luehmannii*, A love that endures, ever steady, ever green. You are my roots. And I am your tree. You feed me wisdom, faith, and belief, With kindness, care, and love so true— Watering this tree as it silently grew. I rise with branches reaching high, Casting shade beneath the sky. And when the storms rage, you anchor me still, Holding firm through every trial and will. As I search for purpose, God’s light warms me— I blossom, I bloom, In scent and in beauty. I live… and I salute you. This promise I make, this bond I keep, Like the circle of life, vast and deep. And when the soil calls you back to rest, I will not fall, though not at my best. I’ll remain, though no longer whole, With leaves that fall, like pieces of soul— Scattered by wind, traveling free, With no map, no end—just memory. Until gravity whispers them home. Endlessly we live... Until we meet again, In another place, in another when. I no longer fear when you're not near, For I know you're always here. From heaven and earth, You'll become my morning and evening star. Once again— I love you, As I have always loved you.