Unconditional

To Amanda and Kayla. I know you know me...

For all the A's on your report cards
here is a star.
I hope your wear it in those eyes
that your father gave you
and your mother colored.

For all the boo-boo's
on your elbows and knees
here is a kiss.
I hope it lights on your heart
to heal the holes
that your father drew
and your mother cut out.

For all the marathons and ball fields
under your feet
here is a "sis boom bah!"
I hope it raises that inner spirit
that your father never knew
and your mother misread.

For all the blank canvas
waiting for your brush
here is an easel.
I hope your use it
to hold up your future
that your father sketched
and your mother white washed.

For all the musical notes
still left in your horn
here is a coda.
I hope it carries your rhythm
into a timely encore
that your father will miss
and your mother can only imagine.

For you, my nieces
grown and beautiful
here is my love.
Do with it what you will
but it remains, unconditional
burning forever in this heart
that recognizes the blood we share.

Love,
Your Aunt