Ahakoa whati te manga, e takoto

ana anō te kōhiwi

(Although the branch is broken off, the trunk remains – Māori proverb)

I want to tell you I see you
All of you
Your backbone of steel, your front tender and soft

I want you to know I see your courage
Your care
Amidst the trauma. Neglect
The abandonment

That I deeply admire your hope and your yearning
For better

I see your consistency, reliability.
Your hard work
I want you to know, they will triumph

That even though you will not live the life you imagined
All will be well

Remember, dear one, to look carefully at this great earth
Breathe in its wonder.
Hold it with awe.

You are part of it all
You belong

The watchful mountains
The attentive trees
The cleansing oceans

They're there for you.
Never forget your guardians
Your companions

Ready to embrace you in your loss
Nurture you in your grief
Give you fortitude in your otherness

And I want you to think of me
Part of it all too.
Accompanying you on your journey.

With my loving arm around you.
My comforting touch.
My assurance that I will never leave your side.

You see? You are never alone.

Aue! Aue!
Kia kaha, my young one

Janine Ford