Names I would have whispered at bedtime.

Names I would have drawn on birthday cakes.

Names I would have called from the front door.

Names I would have written on lunchbox labels.

Names I would have cheered from the sidelines.

Names I would have heard call me “Mom.”

Names I would have signed on Christmas presents.

Names I would have saved in my phone.

Names I would have heard called at graduation.

Names I would have introduced as my son or daughter.

Names I will never get to speak.