FOR MY ANGEL, ANGELA

daughter o daughter hear my whispers hear my screams within you I am my future

my dreams

As Black women, our gardens are sparse.....peppered with weeds throughout. However, the search for my garden along narrow passages and trees hidden in the forest, has brought me to your birthday this year in fine spirits. Gardens, my daughter, are our lives. Where we've been, who we've been and what we have accomplished to satisfy ourselves. Your birth signified the beginning of a fruitful harvest for me. One that I would not have had, if not for your birth on the misty April afternoon. When the nurse placed you in my arms, I trembled. I cried. Your eyes were so alive,so aware of me. Your tiny fist clutched my finger as I inspected your body for traces of the rash inherited from my father. Finding none, I was relieved. God had indeed answered my prayers. I asked Him to make you inwardly and outwardly near perfect.....as jewels are when cut and polished. I so wanted a heavenly star. Heaven reminds me of angels. My angel. My Angela. Today, I truly understand my blessing. As a child, you had fine qualities, consideration of others and a non judgmental approach in all socializations. As a woman, you have been through the woods, saw the forests of uncertainty, but your dedication to a cause or a person has never wavered. I am so proud to call you my daughter. You have matured into such an outstanding individual.....such a rose. I am amazed at your endurance; I am in awe of your achievements; I am in wonderment at the beauty of you in my garden. In you, God has truly made me understand the significance of heavens, roses and gems in life. You, my Angel, are that long stemmed delicate flower. You are that diamond link in my chain. You are the angel from heaven that has furthered my life. Thank you. I love you. In pleasure.