Poems

Perspective

When you want to complain because daycare costs are so high, take a breath.
Somewhere there’s a mom who’d pay anything to bring back that debt.

When you want to stay at work for just 15 extra minutes, wrap it up in three.
Somewhere there’s a dad who’d go back in time to come home early.

Sleepless nights, irrational fights, noise that’s white, dim or bright night lights, remember it will pass.
Push through it with a smile, because somewhere there’s a mom who’d want it all back.

Try to pick your battles wisely – especially when the power struggle is strong.
It’s ok to get upset, but don’t stay that way for long.

Somewhere there’s a mom who’d let a little slide,
to together get to the fight’s other side.

When you can choose between looking at your phone or being present in the moment, take a pic and drop the device.
Somewhere there’s a mom whose phone photos will be all that can suffice.

When you start to say no to one more hug, one more song, one more snuggle, one more kiss-
Remember there’s a dad who will always wish for those things he shouldn’t have to miss.

When you’re frustrated and sad trying to get siblings to play nice, be thankful instead.
Somewhere there’s a brother whose sister’s memory is now a blessing in his heart and head.

When you’re upset with yourself for yelling too loud or too much, next time try to be kind.
Somewhere there’s a mom who can only replay the past in her mind.

This is an ode of advice from me, to me.
Because losing a child is an impossible, unbearable, an unfathomable place to be.

I make these mistakes, as I’m sure many do.
So this is a perspective that may also serve you.

Backstory
These thoughts were coming to me as soon as I heard the news. It is a moment I will never forget. I was at work and received an email with the unbearable news that a family I recently reconnected with had lost their 4 year-old daughter. Within 24 hours, I had to start putting these thoughts on paper and out of my head – because I couldn’t think of anything else. Having a 4 year-old myself and knowing the mother of this little girl – it just hit too close to home.

I only met Layla Bober once, but even in that one encounter, I believe what everyone says about her adorable and spunky personality and that she and her only slightly older brother were the best of friends. I only wish I was able to spend more time with her. My heart goes out to this amazing, community-driven family, as their course has been altered in ways no one could imagine. As they begin to pick up the pieces, I want to share the link to their GoFundMe…. even in the wake of an experience no mother or father should have to deal with – they are raising money for the organizations that Layla loved and lived for. Please donate – and follow, as I am sure what the family does next will continue to take something negative and turn it into as many positives as they can.

Donate to the GoFundMe for Layla Bober

Layla Bober “Though she may be little, she is fierce”.

Go Fund Me Link was posted with permission.

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