A Legacy

for my granddaughter Varley

I open my arms to receive you.
Cradling your tiny head,
I gently kiss the soft tufts of your hair.
A rush of sweetness envelops me.
Powder and lotion, long-buried memories
of holding such a delicate life in my hands.
Buried but not forgotten.
To hold you feels right;

to hold you feels like love and home
and Hope.
I marvel at your miniature fingers and toes,
how such a small thing
can make me want to live so much.
I burn silently with love and tenderness
for you.
You are my precious gift
and infinite treasure.
I open my arms to let you go

into the arms of your mother,
whom I held like this long ago,
taking your cherished scent with me
as I leave.