For Samara on the Occasion of Her 30th Birthday
My mother wrote me a poem and read it at my 30th birthday party. She just gave me that paper version last night, and I thought I’d share.
By Carol O’Shea
Consider the edges ~ my love ~
Like the most delicate stationery that holds content so carefully crafted
& loving in design
Whose papery sheath is tissue soft & speckled with flecks of
Deeper color
Holding meaning forward to share ~ to tell ~ to discover . . .
But a strong carrier that will withstand time ~ 30 or other ~
Folded many times over to open and close and open again
With meaning held so dear . . .
But whose edges are a feathery design ~
Purposely allowing time to blend & sculpt & tumble meaning into
Shining Gems ~ like Cape May diamonds ~
Hold lightly the edges ~ my love.
October 5th, 2009 at 9:26 am
That’s so sweet of your mother.
Happy belated birthday!
October 5th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Time can’t help but change those feathery edges, Samara, and a letter or a word may wear away here and there, but even the smallest scrap of paper has the ability to hold a heart forever.
Happy birthday, kid.
October 5th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Hi Samara,
Glad you’re back. What a lovely poem and happy belated birthday.
Look forward to hearing more about your new book project.
October 29th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
How very loving. It’s brave of you to share something so special with us.
January 4th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
How heartwarming, it’s such a beautiful poem. Thank you for courageously sharing your experience as you strive to refine your personality. I’m so happy for you that you have a very supportive and loving family.